Sabarimala: The security forces have intensified checks to identify individuals entering the Sabarimala temple in Kerala and its surrounding areas with forged documents.

State intelligence departments had reported that people, including those from other states, arriving in this manner could pose a security threat.

Ahead of the Makaravilakku festival, additional screening will be conducted to detect such individuals. Routine checkings and monitoring have been increased in areas from Pampa to the Sannidhanam.

Temporary staff records, including those of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), will be examined. Reports indicate that some individuals have been working at different locations using fake ID cards. Those identified will face legal action. The police and the TDB are sharing information to track such cases. While people carrying fake certificates have been taken into police custody earlier, they were often questioned and released.

In the forest areas of Sabarimala, the police and the forest department will conduct joint aerial surveillance using drones. During peak periods, thieves, anti-social elements, and beggars often enter Sabarimala. These individuals stay hidden in forested areas along the Sabarimala route, evading police and forest department surveillance, and arrive with documents such as fake police clearance certificates. Their presence could create security threats. Drone monitoring will be carried out in areas like Neelimala, Appachimedu, and Saramkuthi.

Strict action planned

“If workers not registered in police records are found, strict action will be taken. The Revenue Department squad and the police shadow teams are conducting round-the-clock monitoring in both Pampa and Sannidhanam,” said R. Anand, District Police Chief, Pathanamthitta.