- Kerala Minister V N Vasavan confirms that spot booking won’t be allowed at Sabarimala this year but assures that all devotees will get darshan.
- The virtual queue system will be the primary mode of booking, allowing pilgrims to reserve darshan and prasadam online.
- Despite opposition demands for spot booking, the government plans to set up Akshaya centers to assist devotees with online bookings.
How will devotees manage without spot booking at Sabarimala?
Kerala’s Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan announced that there would be no spot booking for the annual Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage at Sabarimala. This decision sparked controversy, with political groups like the BJP threatening protests. Traditionally, spot booking allowed devotees to book their darshan slots upon arrival at designated centers. However, this year, the government is relying solely on the virtual queue system, which requires devotees to pre-book their darshan and prasadam through the official website.
This raised concerns from opposition groups like the Congress-led UDF, arguing that not all devotees are familiar with online systems, potentially excluding many pilgrims. Minister Vasavan reassured that no devotee would be denied darshan and emphasized that Akshaya centers would be available at rest stops to help pilgrims book their slots online if they couldn’t do so in advance.
Will this system ensure a smooth pilgrimage for all?
While the government has capped the number of daily pilgrims at 80,000 for safety reasons, the Akshaya centers will provide essential booking services, ensuring that all devotees can participate in the pilgrimage. These centers are Common Service Centers (CSCs), established to assist the public with online services, offering a convenient way for those unfamiliar with technology to book their slots.
Looking Forward: Virtual Queue for a Safe Pilgrimage
The government’s decision aims to modernize and streamline the pilgrimage process, ensuring smooth and safe darshan for all devotees. With support from Akshaya centers, pilgrims can expect easier access to bookings, even if spot reservations are no longer available. The virtual queue system promises a more organized and safer experience for everyone, while the government remains committed to ensuring that no devotee is left behind.
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