Thiruvananthapuram: Following the incidents of violence in Kerala, Governor P Sathasivam on 3 January sought an urgent report from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The Chief Minister has assured the Governor that strict action would be taken against those involved in the disturbances, the release added.
Entry of two young women into the Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala on 2 January prompted a 12-hour state-wide shutdown called by Hindu fringe groups. 1,286 cases were registered till 5 January and 3,282 people were arrested in connection with the violent incidents
According to a release from Raj Bhavan, “The Chief Minister described the nature of the agitation and the action taken to curb the violent protests in different parts of the State.”
Two women, Kanakadurga (44) and Bindu (42), entered the Sabarimala shrine and offered prayers breaking the tradition. This led to the closure of the sanctum sanctorum by the thanthri Kandaru Rajeevaru, who performed a purification ceremony.
During the 3 January hartal, BJP-RSS and CPI(M) members clashed against each other, causing damages to several houses and shops.