Kerala High Court Mandates Strict Pilgrim Entry Regulations at Sabarimala

Court Enforces Virtual-Q and Spot-Booking System to Prevent Overcrowding, Ensuring Devotee Safety

In a landmark decision aimed at safeguarding the sanctity and safety of the Sabarimala pilgrimage, the Kerala High Court has issued stringent directives to control the influx of devotees to the Sannidhanam. The decision comes after alarming reports of overcrowding and unauthorized entries during the recent pilgrimage season. The Court, presided over by Justices Mr. Raja Vijayaraghavan V and K. V. Jayakumar, has mandated that only pilgrims with verified Virtual-Q or spot-booking passes are allowed entry, ensuring adherence to pre-scheduled slots.

The judgment, dated November 27, 2025, addresses the critical need for effective crowd management. It emphasizes the infrastructure limitations at Sannidhanam, highlighting the potential hazards posed by uncontrolled pilgrim gatherings. The Court noted that recent surges in pilgrim numbers had exceeded the site's carrying capacity, leading to concerns over infrastructure collapse, law-and-order issues, and the risk of stampedes.

Key directives issued by the Court include a cap on Virtual-Q bookings at 70,000 per day and spot bookings at 5,000 per day. The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), along with the police, is tasked with ensuring that no unauthorized entries occur, particularly those using fake booking passes. The judgment underscores that adherence to the booking-slot system is non-negotiable, with severe implications for safety and order if breached.

The Court also urged the dissemination of its directives through various media platforms, including the Virtual-Q system, to ensure pilgrims are well-informed ahead of their visits. In response to the judgment, the TDB is to implement SMS alerts for pilgrims with Virtual-Q bookings, reinforcing the importance of compliance with the new guidelines.

This ruling marks a significant step in pilgrim management at Sabarimala, aiming to preserve the spiritual experience while prioritizing the health and safety of devotees. The Court's decision is a proactive measure to prevent foreseeable and preventable dangers, ensuring a secure and serene environment for all pilgrims.

Bottom Line:

Pilgrim management at Sannidhanam - Strict adherence to Virtual-Q and spot-booking system mandated to control inflow of devotees, ensure safety, and prevent overcrowding and potential hazards.

Statutory provision(s): Sabarimala Temple - Safety and Infrastructure

Suo Motu v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2817206