Koodalmanikyam Temple row: Balu's resignation accepted, new appointment soon

KOCHI: The Devaswom accepted the resignation of B A Balu, who was dismissed from his job as Kazhakam staff at the Koodalmanikyam temple following caste discrimination. The decision was taken at the Devaswom Administrative Committee meeting held on Thursday.

The process for the new appointment will begin next week. Govindan Namboothiri, a representative of the Tantri family, did not attend the meeting. The second chance in the rank list is the Ezhava reservation. The meeting suggested strict action against Tantris if they continue with caste discrimination.

The Padinjare Mana family made clear that they would cooperate with the new Kazhakam staff, no matter which caste he belongs to. The Padinjare Mana family are given responsibility for the tantric rituals in the temple during March and April. It was also suggested that if all six Tantris fail to cooperate, consideration should be given to appointing a new Tantri. The meeting was presided over by Chairman Adv. C.K. Gopi.