CBI should investigate plot behind ‘Thrissur pooram fiasco,’ demands Paramekkavu Devaswom

Thrissur: As the ‘Thrissur Pooram fiasco’ is being widely discussed in political and social circles, Paramekkavu Devaswom has come out demanding a CBI investigation to uncover the truth behind the disruption of the ‘pooram’. G. Rajesh, secretary of Paramekkavu Devaswom, alleged that a lobby has been working tirelessly to disrupt the smooth functioning of ‘pooram’ and that a detailed investigation should be conducted regarding the flow of foreign funds to support the dark forces aiming to undermine ‘pooram’.

“A mere announcement of an investigation would not serve the purpose. If it would be a routine investigation, no action would be taken against the culprits named in the report.  Besides, no measures would be implemented to prevent the repetition of such acts,” he said. “Usually, what happens is that the agency entrusted with the investigation comes up with a 1,000-page report, which is then sent to some desk, where it ends up collecting dust. However, if it would be a CBI investigation, the culprits would be brought before the law and punished,” Rajesh said.

“There are many cases in the Supreme Court concerning the conduct of ‘pooram’, including those related to the procession of elephants. Around  90% of the complainants, who have filed these cases, are fake animal lovers. These cases against ‘pooram’ are part of a larger international conspiracy aimed at destroying the most colorful and grand festival of Kerala. Lakhs of rupees are being spent to prolong the cases in court so that the office bearers of temple committees would get frustrated. This is a deliberate attempt to undermine the festivals of Kerala,” he added.

“It is quite surprising that Special Government Pleader (Forest) Nagaraj Narayanan did not approach the government or the court, even though he was aware of the attempts being made to disrupt ‘pooram’. While drafting laws related to the implementation of ‘pooram’ restrictions, Nagaraj did not even consider the suggestions of the Supreme Court. We suspect the involvement of some unidentified forces behind this. The Forest GP should be removed from his post. A detailed investigation should be conducted to reveal the identity of those behind the Forest GP,” he stated.

“Paramekkavu Devaswom has not done anything to disrupt the ‘pooram’ procession or delay any rituals related to the festival,” Rajesh concluded.