Sabarimala temple plans to comply but will appeal

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Religious Trusts Minister Kadakampally Surendran Friday hailed the Supreme Court's verdict allowing entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple as “historic”, while the shrine’s head priest called it “disappointing”. Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president A. Padmakumar has said the Board will go for a review petition after getting support from other religious heads.

He, however, said the Board will initiate measures to implement the verdict in consultation with the government as it has no option but to implement the order. Temple Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru said though the verdict was “disappointing”, the management accepted it. “I respect the court verdict. It is very difficult to arrange special facilities for women in the present context. The board has to make arrangements,” he said.

Mr Padmakumar said the Board would study the Supreme Court judgement in detail after getting a certified copy from the court.  The further course of action would be discussed in consultation with all stake-holders, particularly the religious leaders.