Kerala Devaswom Minister vows firm action over Sabarimala prasadam shortage

Kerala’s Keralam Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan warned he will act firmly against the Travancore Devaswom Board if the aravana prasadam shortage at Sabarimala persists. He announced the appointment of a dedicated assistant district magistrate to inspect the temple’s supply of raw items such as jaggery and coconut oil. The ADM will travel to Sabarimala, gather stock details, and submit a report that will guide further government steps. Muraleedharan said he will not allow anyone to jeopardise devotees’ needs and stressed that any failure to provide aravana and appam will trigger a strong response. He added that Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan has not asked him to hold back such action. The chief minister is scheduled to visit Sabarimala during the Thula maasam period, which runs from 18 October to 16 November 2026. In contrast, BJP Keralam president Rajeev Chandrasekhar accused the Congress‑led UDF government of ignoring pilgrim concerns while quarreling with the Devaswom board. Chandrasekhar claimed the ruling alliance used Lord Ayyappa’s name in its election campaign but has done little for devotees now. On a separate claim about a missing gold crown, TDB president K. Jayakumar insisted the crown remains in the temple. Muraleedharan also refuted reports of anti‑rabies vaccine shortages, confirming ample stock of the vaccine and other essential medicines in government hospitals. He noted that hospitals may purchase any scarce drug through a ready‑stock purchase scheme.