Debate Over Pilgrim Spot Booking at Sabarimala

The Congress-led UDF opposition in Kerala has called for the state government to allow spot booking for pilgrims at the Sabarimala shrine during the annual pilgrimage season. They argue that restricting bookings to online mode limits access for non-tech-savvy pilgrims. However, the government maintains the current online booking system ensures a controlled number of visitors, facilitating better management.

The Congress-led UDF opposition in Kerala is advocating for on-the-spot slot booking for the upcoming annual Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season at the Sabarimala shrine. They argue that the online-only booking system will hinder non-tech-savvy pilgrims, particularly those from outside the state.

Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan emphasized the potential exclusion of pilgrims who observe a 41-day fasting period before embarking on their journey, as the current system only allows 80,000 bookings per day.

State Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan defended the government's stance, highlighting that last year's spot bookings led to overcrowding issues. The Chief Minister's meeting concluded that limiting daily visitors to 80,000 through online bookings ensures a seamless experience for devotees.

(With inputs from agencies.)