THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The police have started preparations ahead of Sabarimala shrine opening on Feb 12. As SC’s final verdict will be declared soon, women presence at Sabarimala could lead to more protests. This won’t turn out to be good, as Lok Sabha polls are also close. The police are trying to appoint a 3000 member police team at Sabarimala in order to strengthen security.

Intelligence reports claim that women will reach Sabarimala to visit the shrine, even though the temple is going to be opened for just five days. Precautions need to be taken in order to keep protests, if any, under control. Police are now keeping an eye on organizations that lead protests before. The police are also aware of pilgrims from other states that protested last time.

South sector ADGP Anilkanth, Thiruvananthapuram Range IG ADGP Manoj Abraham, Additional DGP Anandakrishnan will be tasked with security and unification duty.

Police restrictions will be in effect from February 12 to 17. Devotees and media will be allowed to enter Pamba and Sannidanam only after 10 a.m. on February 12.