Controversy erupts over police photoshoot at divine Pathinettampadi; ADGP seeks report

PATHANAMTHITTA: A new controversy erupted in Sabarimala after the police officials did a photoshoot from the 18 divine steps ( Pathinettam padi) near the temple shrine. The ADGP sought a report from the Sannidhanam Special Officer on the incident.

The photo was taken from Pathinettam Padi by the policemen of the first batch after duty. The controversy started when the photo started circulating on social media, forcing the ADGP to seek a report on the matter.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad strongly condemned the incident and demanded urgent punitive action. The 18 steps are considered divine by devotees of Lord Ayyappa. Even padi pooja is performed by the thantri accompanied by the Melshanthi (chief priest) to the eighteen hill deities who guard Ayyappa.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad Kerala unit took offence to the policemen turning their back on the lord Ayyappa. Even the temple chief priest, after performing rituals, will descend the steps facing the temple shrine.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad State President VG Thampi and General Secretary VR Rajasekaran accused the Chief Minister of aiding and abetting the police officers.