Haj-like quota for Sabarimala?

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Kerala Forest Department has said a State-wise “Haj-like” quota system should be introduced at Sabarimala to regulate the number of pilgrims.

The controversial proposal was mooted by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Mr T.N. Manoharan at a meeting held here against the backdrop of the Pulmedu stampede.

Sources told Deccan Chronicle that Additional Chief Secretary Mr K. Jayakumar and officials of Travancore Devaswom Board were present at the meeting that coincided with a special sitting of the Sabarimala Bench of the Kerala High Court.

Citing the unscientific manner in which infrastructure was being developed at the hill shrine, Mr Manoharan said there was “a need to have a target fixed and carrying capacity of the abode assessed”.

When contacted, Mr Manoharan confirmed that his department had indeed raised the point as “it is very urgent to know how many pilgrims will be present at Sabarimala on a given day”.