SABARIMALA: A girl, who came for Sabarimala darshan, collapsed and died in Appachimedu on Saturday. The deceased has been identified as Salem native Padmashri. The 10-year-old girl collapsed today afternoon when she reached Appachimedu. Although she was rushed to the hospital, she could not be saved. The girl came for darshan with a group from Tamil Nadu. According to the police, the child had heart-related issues earlier. The body is currently kept at Pampa General Hospital.

Meanwhile, as it is the weekend, Sabarimala temple is witnessing a heavy rush of devotees today. Devotees were able to have darshan after waiting for a long time. The Special Commissioner and Devaswom officials held talks with the Tantri after the High Court asked to consider increasing the darshan time at Sabarimala temple. The Devaswom Board later stated in the High Court that the Tantri informed that Sabarimala darshan time cannot be increased in the current situation. The position was announced in a special sitting of the Devaswom bench in the context of uncontrolled crowding at Sabarimala. The court had asked whether the darshan time at Sabarimala could be extended by two more hours.