Sabarimala (Kerala), Dec 6 (UNI) Security at Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple has been significantly tightened to its highest level with multiple forces conducting joint operations in view of the Babri Masjid demolition anniversary on December 6 to ensure the safety of thousands of devotees.
Kerala Police, CRPF, RAF, NDRF, Anti-Sabotage Check Team, Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS), and the Special Branch carried out a joint route march at the shrine as part of the intensified security arrangements.
Special Officer R. Sreekumar said additional precautions have been deployed at key locations, including Sannidhanam, Pampa, and Nilakkal. Devotees will not barred from climbing the 18 holy steps after 11 pm once the walkway is closed, and the sanctum (Thirumuttam) and surrounding areas will be inspected by the Anti-Sabotage Team.
Those arriving after the closure will need to wait until the following morning. The BDDS has been reinforced with eight additional personnel, while staff barracks, accommodations, and permanent entry points will undergo thorough security checks.
Strict ID verification will be enforced at all access points. Screening measures will include scanners, door frame metal detectors, and handheld metal detectors at the walkway and darshan areas.
Tractor movement to Sabarimala has been restricted for two days, and all goods brought in will be thoroughly inspected. Darshan via the 18 holy steps will continue as usual, with additional checks applied only to devotees flagged as suspicious.
Special Officer Sreekumar urged all devotees, officials, and workers to fully cooperate with the security arrangements to ensure a safe pilgrimage experience.
Babri Masjid anniversary: Security tightened at Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala
