Sabarimala to Enforce Stricter Videography Rules

Quick Summary:

• The Kerala High Court has expanded restrictions on media coverage at the Sabarimala temple ahead of the pilgrimage season.
• The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) will meet with the Chief Police coordinator and temple Tantri to revise guidelines for videography in sensitive areas, which will later be submitted to the High Court.
• A report from Sabarimala Special Commissioner flagged violations during last year’s pilgrimage season, including unauthorized filming by a staffer near the sanctum sanctorum and press photographers climbing railings to capture visuals of key rituals.
• Live coverage equipment, such as tripods, was improperly installed in restricted zones last year; visuals showed mediapersons violating regulations during significant events like the Makaravilakku festival.
• The court banned helicams due to security concerns under Section 82(1) of the Kerala Police act but allowed surveillance operations. Tripods for live telecasts must be placed only at designated spots with prior TDB approval.
• Only accredited journalists cleared by their organizations and vetted by officials will receive TDB-issued identity cards for coverage within permitted areas; accommodation arrangements must follow designated directives.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
The tightening of media restrictions at Sabarimala reflects an effort to balance traditions with modern-day observances while also safeguarding crucial security measures around one of India’s most prominent pilgrimage sites. Concerns about unauthorized videography signal underlying challenges as technology intersects with religious sanctity. While these measures aim to uphold tradition and ensure orderliness during high-footfall events, they also underline accountability on part of mediapersons covering sensitive rituals.

Given that past violations have occurred despite existing controls, stricter emphasis on security protocol may help streamline operations without inconveniencing devotees or disrupting prayer atmospheres. These actions are likely aligned toward minimizing overcrowding around ritual spaces while ensuring decorum within religious premises-though monitoring compliance across expansive temple grounds may pose practical challenges that demand proactive coordination among stakeholders.

Read More: Published – July 22, 2025 08:04 pm IST