SABARIMALA: More pilgrims than those who confirmed darshan through virtual queues and spot bookings are coming to Sabarimala. During the current Sabarimala pilgrimage season, the highest number of devotees visited the temple on the 22nd. A total of 83,385 pilgrims arrived till 11 pm. The number swelled after those who had booked before and after this day were also allowed to enter on that day. Despite the large number of pilgrims, neither the restrictions were lifted nor did the queue extend beyond the "Valiya Nadapanthal". Though the virtual queue slots were fixed at only 70,000, 71,687 people turned up at that time. Only 10,000 people are allowed to visit the temple through spot booking every day. On that day, 11,698 people had darshan.

The high court had directed that 90,000 people should be given darshan daily, including 80,000 through virtual queue booking and 10,000 through spot booking. The Devaswom Board had reduced the number based on the police report due to concerns that the restrictions will be thwarted like last year if the rush increases. This was done without seeking permission from the court. The Sabarimala special commissioner submitted a report to the court pointing out this unilateral action of the Devaswom Board. In the current scenario, it is expected that even if one lakh pilgrims arrive daily, the darshan can be made possible through proper restrictions. The Devaswom Board has decided in principle to increase virtual queue slots. It will be implemented only after the permission of the court.