Women at Sabarimala temple: govt orders probe

Thiruvananthapuram, Apr 18: Even as social media buzz builds around a photograph that shows women apparently praying at the sanctum sanctorum of the Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala, the CPM-led Kerala government has intervened to check if the temple traditions were tampered with.

The photograph, widely shared on social media, shows women praying at the temple, in which the entry of women of the menstruating age is banned. The age of the women could not be verified from the photograph, which was reportedly taken on April 11.

T G Mohandas, convenor of the BJP’s intellectual cell, had posted the image on Twitter, captioned: “Hope these girls are above 50!”

Amid outrage over the violation of the temple’s traditions, many responded that the image was photoshopped. Some also said it was not taken at the Sabarimala temple.

While social media continued to debate on the location and the veracity of the image, allegations also emerged over VIP darshans at the temple, and Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran has initiated action.

The minister, who earlier had tiffs with the Travancore Devaswom Board that manages the administrative affairs of the temple, said the board’s vigilance and security wing has been directed to probe the matter.

“I’ve received complaints that the women had accompanied a Kollam-based businessman, who is learnt to have been arranging VIP darshans at the temple,” Surendran said.

He said action would be taken against any attempt to influence authorities in obtaining special privileges at the temple.

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SMR Public School’s ‘EXCELLENTIA’ highlights academic excellence and holistic growth

News Network

December 16,2025

Melkar (Bantwal): The 9th Annual Day celebration of SMR Public School, titled “EXCELLENTIA”, was held on December 15 with great enthusiasm and dignity, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey towards academic excellence and holistic development.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. U. T. Iftikar Ali. The chief guests were Dr. Akhtar Hussain, Mr. P. Moosabba Beary, Mr. Zakaria Jokattre, and Dr. T. M. Abdul Rahuf—whose inspiring addresses motivated the students and appreciated the school’s contributions to education.

Mr. Abdul Nasir, Mr. Ibrahim Gadiyar, Mr. Razak Golthamajal, Mr. Sali Koya, Mr. Arshad Hussain, Mr. Ismail Balanoor, Mr. Feroz Bawa, Mr. Sahul Hameed, Mr. Abubakkar, Mr. Hameed K. Mani, Mr. Abdul Majeed (Principal, Melkar Women’s College), and Mr. Abdul Lathief (Former Principal, Melkar Women’s College) were the guests of honour.

The Annual Report was presented by the Headmistress, Ms. Fathimathul Zaheera, highlighting the school’s achievements and progress during the academic year. The Presidential Address was delivered by the Chairman of SMR Public School, Dr. Haji S. M. Rasheed, who emphasised the vital role of education in shaping students’ futures and stressed the importance of discipline, dedication, and consistent effort in achieving 100 per cent academic results.

Secretary of SMR Public School, Mr. Rifath Ahmed, and PTA President, Mr. Sandeep Kumar, were also present on the occasion.

The Annual Day celebration showcased the collective efforts of students and teachers and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to quality education and all-round development. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, parents, and well-wishers for their support. The 9th Annual Day—EXCELLENTIA—was a memorable and successful event, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

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