Why can't Global Ayyappa Sangamam be held if Kumbh Mela is fine?: High Court cites government's question

KOCHI: The High Court said that the government is asking why Global Ayyappa Sangamam can't be held if Kumbh Mela is fine? The court told the petitioners opposing the Ayyappa Sangam that Rs 7,000 crore was spent for Kumbh Mela, but only Rs 4 crore for Ayyappa Sangamam. The court intervened when the petitioners argued that money cannot be spent from the government treasury or the Devaswom fund for the global Ayyappa Sangamam.

Advocate General K Gopalakrishna Kurup, appearing for the government, had pointed out that the central government's funds are being spent on the Kumbh Mela. After the conclusion of the argument, the Devaswom bench comprising Justice V Raja Vijayaraghavan and Justice KV Jayakumar adjourned the petitions for a verdict. The petitions were filed by Haindaveeyam Foundation Secretary M Nandakumar, a native of Kalamassery, and Advocate Ajeesh Kalathil Gopi, arguing that the Ayyappa Sangamam is being run by the government.

Questions from the court and answers from the government

Court: What is the government's role in the Ayyappa Sangamam?

AG: It is only helping the Devaswom Board. There are central government funds for the Kumbh Mela. This cannot be interpreted as a violation of the Constitution. Six chief ministers have been invited to the Sangamam.

Court: Can funds be accepted in the name of Ayyappa?

AG: Money is accepted from those who volunteer. A separate account has been opened. The Devaswom and the government do not spend the funds.

Court: Who are the invitees? Will they be given special consideration?

AG: 3,000 people are being invited. Most will be from southern states. They will not be given any consideration that other devotees do not have. Their opinion will be sought on the development of Sabarimala.

Court: What will be done with the money collected?

AG: Rs 1,300 crore should be found for the Sabarimala master plan. If anyone comes forward to build a ropeway, it will be accepted. There is nothing wrong with that.

Court: Is the construction in Pampa for the Sangamam a permanent structure?

G. Biju (Devaswom lawyer): A temporary pandal is being prepared. There will be no AC. No rights of ordinary devotees will be denied.