THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala government has come out with draft amendment bill to prevent arms training on temple premises. The government has included this provision in the draft of Travancore-Kochi religious institution amendment bill prepared by it.

Those who violate the rule will have to undergo six month jail term or pay Rs 5000 fine. The spadework for the amendment had started following the clarification given by the chief minister (in February) and Devaswom board minister (in December) in the Assembly that law will be made to prevent weapons’ training inside temple promises.

Ironically, when the Supreme Court considered the petition regarding separate administrative law for Sabarimala recently, the Kerala government presented the bill on preventing arms training.

In the Assembly, the ministers had clarified that Devaswom properties should not be used for matters other than that related to temple affairs and tradition. Also weapons training or drills should not be conducted using Devaswom properties, provided they have connection with temple traditions. The above two clauses are mentioned in 31 (B) 3 section and 31 (B) 4 section of the draft bill.

The details of the punishment are mentioned in 31(B)5 section. As per the amended law, the police will have the authority to file suo-motu case. Though the bill was ready by early this year, further procedures got delayed due to Sabarimala protests and Lok Sabha election.