Kerala: CM Pinarayi Vijayan Accuses UDF Of Politicising Sabarimala, Labels Protests 'Unfortunate' As Pressure Mounts

In a scathing critique on Wednesday (13 December), Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has accused the Opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) of exploiting the Sabarimala situation for political gains.

Speaking in Kottayam, he labelled the protests by UDF MPs in New Delhi as "unfortunate" and claimed they used Sabarimala to tarnish the state's image.

Vijayan also accused UDF MPs of withdrawing support for a Kerala government proposal to meet Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman regarding the state's financial situation.

"This happened on two occasions. All of them agreed initially but refused to sign the memorandum to be submitted to the minister. This has created an impression that Kerala can never stay united politically," said Vijayan, as reported by The Hindu.

Regarding the rush at Sabarimala, Vijayan assured that the situation was under control.

With pilgrim footfall rising to 1.2 lakh per day recently, and over 20,000 daily spot bookings, the Chief Minister attributed the surge to public holidays and deferred pilgrimages from Telangana and Tamil Nadu due to elections and floods, respectively.

Vijayan also highlighted the allocation of Rs 220 crore over seven years for implementing the Sabarimala master plan, approved by the high power committee of the Kerala High Court.