Thiruvananthapuram: BJP national executive committee member Kummanam Rajasekharan urged the state govt to withdraw cases filed by the former LDF govt against those who participated in the Sabarimala agitation.It is unacceptable that the cases registered in connection with the Sabarimala agitation still remain. Although it was earlier announced that cases without a criminal nature would be withdrawn, no action has followed’’, he said. It is said that cases were registered against over 16,000 people, but there is no clarity on the exact count.Because the cases continue, many people face difficulties in matters such as employment and travel. Even as criticism persists that these cases were filed to weaken the Sabarimala protest, the govt is unwilling to withdraw them. Since experts have long pointed out that these cases lack criminal character, the home minister must take a clear stand, he said.He said the govt and devaswom board should stop the blame game and expressed concern over the delay in the preparations ahead of the Sabarimala pilgrim season. Work such as renovating roads to Sabarimala, ensuring drinking water, electricity, healthcare, transport and sanitation must be completed on time. Systems that earn substantial revenue from pilgrims must not fail to provide the basic facilities devotees need, he said. Offerings such as aravana and appam must be made available in sufficient quantity. Availability of items needed at Pamba for the irumudikettu, including ghee coconuts, must also be ensured. Situations where devotees have to return without food must be avoided. He also urged that charitable organisations and volunteer groups willing to provide free meals be given the necessary permissions and facilities.
