Thiruvananthapuram: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Kerala has launched a sharp attack on State Devaswom Minister VN Vasavan, accusing him of showing “disrespect” during President Droupadi Murmu’s historic visit to the Sabarimala temple on Wednesday.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), BJP Kerala General Secretary Anoop Antony Joseph criticised the minister’s demeanour inside the sanctum, alleging that he failed to show the traditional gestures of reverence while accompanying the President.
“While the President and others stood with folded hands before Lord Ayyappa, Minister Vasavan stood right behind her, head high, not even a single gesture of respect,” Joseph wrote.
He further added that atheism is a personal belief, but questioned Vasavan’s role in temple administration if he does not subscribe to the faith.
“Being an atheist is a personal choice, no one objects to that. But if you don’t believe in Ayyappa, what business do you have inside His temple or managing the faith of millions?” he asked.
⚡ Political Fallout
Joseph went on to accuse the minister of treating temples as “treasuries to plunder” and demanded that he step aside from his responsibilities.
The BJP, which has been targeting Vasavan over the alleged Sabarimala gold theft case, renewed its call for his resignation, claiming his actions reflect disregard for religious sentiment.
The Kerala government has not yet issued an official response to the controversy.
🛕 President Murmu’s Historic Visit
President Droupadi Murmu made history on Wednesday by becoming the first woman head of state to offer prayers at Lord Ayyappa’s Sabarimala shrine.
She performed darshan at the temple sanctum and visited other nearby shrines under tight security arrangements. The visit was part of her two-day tour of Kerala, which included several cultural and religious engagements.
🚨 Police Officer’s Social Media Controversy
Meanwhile, another controversy erupted when a DySP-ranking officer in Palakkad district came under scrutiny for posting a WhatsApp status critical of the President’s visit.
The post reportedly claimed that customs and High Court orders related to the Sabarimala pilgrimage were violated during the President’s visit, and questioned why Congress and BJP were not protesting.
According to police sources, the officer accidentally posted a forwarded message while travelling by train and deleted it soon after being alerted. The District Police Chief has sought an explanation and initiated a departmental inquiry.
🗣️ Broader Context
President Murmu’s visit has been hailed by many as a symbolic moment for women’s inclusion in temple spaces that have traditionally been restrictive. However, it has also reignited political and religious sensitivities around Sabarimala’s management and faith practices — an issue that has historically polarised Kerala’s political landscape.
Originally published on newsworldstime.com.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
