PAMPA: The police have granted permission for the devotees to enter Pampa as Sabarimala temple is set to open for Chithira Aatta Visesham. Though the private vehicles were initially blocked at Nilakkal, they were allowed to go to Pampa following devotees' protest. However, the police have taken a stand that they will be allowed to enter Sabarimala only at 11 am. Meanwhile devotees have also started protesting at Erumeli to start the KSRTC services to Pampa. However, KSRTC officials said that service will begin only when permission is granted by the police.
Meantime, journalists were also allowed to enter Sannidhanam after strict evaluation. Devotees and police had arguments at several places. Security has been beefed up to avoid a clash. 2300 policemen are deployed at Sabarimala including commandos and women police officers.
75 commandos of Indian reserve batallion have also reached at Sannidhanam. IGMR Ajith Kumar has given direction for them. 6 magistrates are appointed for coordinating security works. The police have conducted security checks inside all the buildings at Pampa and Sannidhanam except the rooms of tantris. Identity proof of everyone was checked. Ayyappa Seva Sangham and Ayyappa Seva Samajam activists were also questioned.