PATHANAMTHITTA: Devaswom board president A Padma Kumar came to the fore harshly criticising Sabarimala head priest (tantri) Kandararu Rajeevaru for closing the temple and performing purification rituals after two women offered prayers at the hill shrine. Board president has asked the tantri to give an explanation within 15 days.

Padma Kumar said the incident of closing the temple is against Supreme Court's judgment. Devaswom commissioner has reported on it and an explanation was sought from the tantri based on it. Meantime, there is no need of a probe as the verdict of the apex court prevails. There is no compromise on it, he said.