Hard-Pressed On Sabarimala: Kerala CM Calls All-Party Meet To ‘Discuss’ Issue After Supreme Court Postpones Review

After the Supreme Court decided to take up the review petitions challenging the 28 September verdict on all women’s entry in Sabarimala, on 22 January, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has called for an all-party meeting ahead of the upcoming Mandalam-Makaravilakku season, reports ANI.

The Supreme Court, however, refused to stay its 28 September ruling on Tuesday (13 November) and there is a daunting task for the government as the temple would remain open for 64 days from 17 November for the pilgrim season.

The all-party meeting scheduled to be convened two days ahead of the Mandalam-Makaravilakku season gains significance as Sabarimala, and its surrounding areas witnessed a string of protests when the temple opened on 5 November, condemning the judgement of the Supreme Court and the government's move to escort women to enter the sanctum.

Almost 3,505 devotees have been arrested, and 529 cases in connection with a series of incidents post the 28 September verdict were registered.