I G Sreejith removed from duties at Sabarimala

PATHANAMTHITTA: Kerala police has beefed up the security at Pampa and Sannidhanam as the temple is set to open for one day in November for the Chithira Atta Thirunal pooja. Crticial changes will be made within the force as part of this. IG Sreejith was removed from his position. Sreejith was in charge of the security of the women devotees who had come to visit the temple. Though the women were sent back because of the devotees' protest, IG Sreejith's remarks following the incidents had resulted in a backlash.

The photograph of Sreejith praying in front of the temple with tears had gone viral in the social media. CPM leadership had demanded to remove the IG immediately because they fear that a backlash may occur as the party supports the supreme court verdict allowing women of all ages to enter the temple.

Meantime, the police has decided to strengthen the security in all districts. DGP Loknath Behra has directed region ADGPs, range IG and district police chiefs to take strict action if any clash occurs or if any of the devotees are blocked on the way to Sabarimala.

Manoj Abraham, Thiruvananthapuram range IG will be in charge of the arrangements in Pampa. IG P Vijayan will be in charge of the security at Sannidhanam.