Kochi: The Devaswom Board has submitted CCTV footage from the Sabarimala shrine to the Kerala High Court after the court raised concerns about VIP privileges extended to certain individuals, including actor Dileep.

The controversy revolves around Dileep's visit to the Sannidhanam, which took place just before the midnight Harivarasanam song at the temple. Standing in the front row for about ten minutes, Dileep allegedly caused a delay in the queue, preventing other devotees from proceeding. The court questioned how such an incident could occur.

The High Court has directed the state government to provide a detailed affidavit on the incident. The Devaswom bench intends to take further action after examining the CCTV footage and will hear what the government has to say. 

According to a report filed by the Sabarimala Devaswom Executive Officer, other VIPs, including Alappuzha District Judge K K Radhakrishnan and NoRKA Roots in-charge K P Anilkumar, also received special privileges at the shrine. They were accompanied by a large group and a police escort. 

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.