THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Deputy Speaker Chittayam Gopakumar has formally requested the Devaswom Minister to allow spot bookings for darshan at Sabarimala, arguing that the exclusive reliance on online bookings could negatively impact the pilgrimage experience. In his letter, Gopakumar urged the government to reconsider its decision, highlighting the widespread protests from various organizations advocating for the traditional practice of spot booking.

Despite ongoing street protests in favour of spot bookings, the Devaswom Board has responded vaguely to concerns raised by devotees. The Board President has repeatedly stated that the current policy will only accommodate virtual queues, ensuring that devotees will not be turned away.

CPI has voiced strong opposition to the government's stance through its mouthpiece, criticizing the rigidity of the current approach. CPI State Secretary Binoy Viswam emphasized the importance of flexibility on sensitive issues, asserting that maintaining stubbornness could be counterproductive in addressing the needs of the devotees.