Kottayam: In an attempt to alleviate the apprehensions of the pilgrims, Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan announced that Akshaya centers would be established at base camps of temples en route Sabarimala for devotees in order to facilitate darshan. However, there would no longer be direct spot bookings, he added. 
The Minister explained that this decision was made to prevent any issues this time. Vasavan also reiterated that the Sabarimala darshan will be available through online booking. He assured that there would be no situation where devotees would have to leave without getting darshan. 

Information about the devotees will be collected at the Akshaya centers in the base camps. Devotees who have taken a vow, wearing the ‘mala’ and ‘irumudikkettu’, will not have to return without darshan, the Minister said. He assured that everyone would be guaranteed darshan, which is why Akshaya centers are being set up at various locations.

"This is a significant convenience. If someone climbs Sabarimala without any documentation and if an accident occurs, it would be problematic, and this initiative aims to eliminate such risks. The limit will be set at 80,000. The government's only aim in this matter is the interest and safety of the devotees," V N Vasavan said.

He added that the Devaswom Board would provide facilities while safeguarding the interests of the devotees. 

“If there are attempts to misinterpret the situation, we will clearly state the facts. There is no room for unrest here. We will try to avoid repeating the problems of the past. This is why we are setting up Akshaya centers to address issues. If there are deliberate attempts to create problems, we will confront them,” he said and clarified that there is no need for concern.