Sabarimala tractor journey: ADGP MR Ajith Kumar at fault, issued warning, says DGP

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: State Police Chief Ravada Chandrasekhar has confirmed that there was a lapse on the part of ADGP M.R. Ajith Kumar for undertaking a tractor journey in Sabarimala in violation of a High Court order. The DGP confirmed that a formal warning was issued to Ajith Kumar, with instructions to avoid such breaches in the future. The officer has reportedly admitted to undertaking the unauthorised journey.

The journey took place from Pampa to Sannidhanam and back. There were allegations that Pathanamthitta SP V.G. Vinod Kumar had arranged the necessary facilities for the trip. A detailed inquiry was conducted by the Special Branch, and Intelligence Chief P. Vijayan submitted a report on the matter. According to the findings, the ADGP boarded the tractor from a CCTV-blind spot in Pampa and travelled in the vehicle’s rear compartment, which was concealed with a tarpaulin sheet. Pilgrims reportedly recorded visuals of the trip on mobile phones.

Ajith Kumar had visited Sabarimala in connection with the consecration ceremony of the newly constructed Navagraha Temple near the Malikappuram Temple. Even for security reasons, it is punishable to travel on a tractor like a cleaner. Special Commissioner R. Jayakrishnan had previously taken a firm stance against such violations, including the cancellation of permits for tractors found transporting passengers. However, due to health reasons, he was not present at Sabarimala during the monthly pooja and the consecration ceremonies last month.