Sabarimala temple opens amid protests

The famous Sabarimala temple in Kerala opened its doors on Wednesday evening amid protests and clashes. 

Thousands of devotees reached the temple despite the clashes. 

Tension is still prevailing in and around Nilakkal, Pamba and Erumeli. Protesters opposing the Supreme Court verdict permitting women of all ages to enter the temple clashed with police, which resorted to baton-charge.

Meanwhile, the Pathanamthitta District Administration has decided to



enforce prohibitory order under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in Sabarimala today. 

District Collector PB Nooh informed the media that the decision was taken following the clash between protesters and police. 

Section 144 which bans unlawful assembly will be invoked in four places including the shrine, Ilavunkal, Nilakkal and Pampa. 

The prohibitory order will not be applicable to pilgrims.