Travancore Devaswom takes strong exception to police photoshoot on sacred Pathinettampadi

Sabarimala: The Travancore Devaswom Board has expressed its displeasure over a controversial photoshoot involving policemen on Pathinettampadi, the 18 holy steps at Sabarimala. A board meeting held after the incident deemed the actions of the police officers inappropriate and conveyed this sentiment to Sabarimala Chief Police Coordinator, ADGP S Sreejith.

The controversy arose when a group of policemen, after completing their duty on Sunday, posed for a photo from the sacred Pathinettampadi. Devotees traditionally climb these steps only with their Irumudikettu, making the policemen’s actions a deviation from established customs.

The viral photo, shared widely on social media, sparked strong criticism. The board also accused the police of putting the policemen who are doing a difficult job on the defensive. 

The problems started when the policemen who were off duty at the Sannidhanam took a photo of themselves standing their backs turned on the sacred Pathinettampadi on Monday. The photo went viral on social media and drew widespread criticism. 

The High Court intervened promptly, seeking an explanation from ADGP. In response, the policemen stated they were unaware of the traditional restrictions associated with the Pathinettampadi. However, the explanation was dismissed by authorities, who stressed that such cultural nuances must be well-understood by personnel stationed at the site. 

As part of corrective measures, the authorities have decided to send the officers for intense training for good conduct.