The Minister’s statement comes as demands to withdraw the affidavit have increased, with both the opposition UDF and the BJP calling for its removal.
Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan asked the government to clarify if it plans to withdraw the cases filed against Ayyappa devotees who participated in protests.
In response, Minister Vasavan said that the government has already decided to withdraw all minor cases, keeping only serious ones, pending court approval. He also clarified that the upcoming Global Ayyappa Sangamam is not related to the affidavit but is meant to discuss developing Sabarimala as a global pilgrimage site.
Satheesan accused the government of “political hypocrisy” for organizing the event, claiming their actions would only help extremist groups. He also alleged that the government has not supported the development of Sabarimala, unlike the previous UDF government.
With input from TNIE
For more details: Navamalayalam.com
