Sannidhanam: The Kerala High Court has criticised the VIP treatment allegedly extended to actor Dileep, Alappuzha District Judge K K Radhakrishnan and Non-Resident Keralite’s Affairs (NoRKA) Roots in-charge K P Anilkumar during their visit to Sabarimala and has sought an explanation from the Devaswom Board. The court has also directed the board to produce CCTV footage from the Sannidhanam area. 

According to the report submitted by the Sabarimala Devaswom Executive Officer, the VIP trio, accompanied by several others, received special privileges. While Radhakrishnan, Anil Kumar and Dileep were allowed to touch the shrine from the front, others in their entourage used the general queue. This arrangement has drawn criticism, as the High Court had earlier directed that all devotees at Sabarimala should be treated equally and VIP darshan should not be permitted.

The Court was also informed by the Special Commissioner that the presence of Dileep near the Sopanam during the ceremony led to significant crowding, obstructing the darshan of other pilgrims. The Special Commissioner reported that the crowding and blocking of pilgrims' access caused disruptions, hampering effective crowd management efforts.

The court responded strongly, stating that it would initiate contempt proceedings against officials who grant special privileges to celebrities or VIPs, violating the court's orders on crowd management. The court further indicated it would consider including these celebrities, whose actions create obstacles for ordinary pilgrims, as additional respondents in the case.

The court emphasised that no individual should receive special treatment at Sabarimala, asserting that all devotees are equal. It reiterated that everyone should have darshan through the virtual queue system. This principle was also highlighted in the court’s earlier ruling concerning controversial businessman Sunil Swamy.

Actor Dileep visited Sabarimala on Thursday night, and it has been alleged that Devaswom Board officials accompanied him, arranging for him to have darshan in front of the shrine. 

The court has taken note of these allegations and is set to examine the matter. To assist in this investigation, the court has ordered the production of CCTV footage from both the Sannidhanam and Upper Thirumuttam areas. 

The court added that if any irregularities are found, appropriate action will be taken.