In a suo motu action, the Kerala High Court has stepped in to safeguard the welfare of lakhs of Sabarimala devotees. The Division Bench, led by Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K.V. Jayakumar, on Thursday directed authorities to ensure clean, safe, and comfortable facilities for pilgrims during the upcoming Mandalam–Makaravilakku festival season (2025–26).
Background
The order came after the Sabarimala Special Commissioner submitted a detailed report outlining gaps in infrastructure and hygiene across key Edathavalams - resting points for pilgrims - maintained by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), Indian Railways, and the District Tourism Promotion Council. These shelters provide temporary accommodation, drinking water, toilets, and, in some places, Annadhanam (free meals).
However, the report noted delays in constructing new Edathavalams under a state project financed by the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB). The Bench noted that such delays could directly affect the pilgrims’ experience and safety during peak days of the annual pilgrimage.
Court’s Observations
Taking a serious note of the environmental threat at Erumeli, the court observed that pilgrims were discarding plastic shampoo sachets into a nearby stream (“Thode”), polluting the sacred area. “The District Administration, Kottayam, shall forthwith impose a ban on the use of shampoos in plastic sachets in and around Erumeli,” the Bench ordered.
The judges expressed concern that unchecked littering could harm both the local ecosystem and the spiritual sanctity of the temple town. “All necessary measures shall be taken to strictly enforce this directive,” the order added, leaving no ambiguity about the urgency.
The Bench also highlighted the responsibility of local bodies like the Erumeli Grama Panchayat and Chengannur Municipality to actively monitor cleanliness. “Health Inspectors must ensure all sanitation facilities remain clean and functional,” the court said, emphasizing that this was not a seasonal formality but a civic duty.
Decision
The court directed all respondents - including the Travancore Devaswom Board, State Government, and railway officials - to ensure uninterrupted access to potable water, hygienic toilets, Annadhanam services, and proper waste management. The TDB was specifically instructed to maintain scrupulously clean sanitation facilities at Sannidhanam and other congregation points.
In conclusion, the High Court made it clear that the welfare of Sabarimala pilgrims cannot be compromised for administrative convenience. The matter will be reviewed again on October 29, 2025, when compliance reports from the authorities are expected to be submitted.
Case: Suo Motu Proceedings Based on Sabarimala Special Commissioner Report (SSCR No. 29 of 2025)
Type of Case: Suo Motu Public Interest Matter (Relating to Pilgrim Welfare and Environment at Sabarimala)
Court: High Court of Kerala, Ernakulam
Bench: Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K.V. Jayakumar
Date of Order: 16 October 2025