Kannur, Kerala. A program held by the Welfare Party, the political wing of Jamaat-e-Islami, within the premises of a temple has sparked protests among devotees. The event took place at the Valapattanam Kalari Vatukkal Temple grounds in Kannur, and protests have emerged against both the temple committee, which granted permission for the gathering, and the Malabar Devaswom Board authorities.
The event, organized under the leadership of Valapattanam Panchayat member Sameera, who represents the 10th ward, was part of the “Valapattanam Heritage Walk” program that aims to introduce visitors to the historical areas within the panchayat. Reports indicate that the Welfare Party was granted permission for the gathering by the temple committee president, although it appears that not all committee members were aware of this decision.
Following the event, the Chirakkal Kovilakam Devaswom Executive Officer, Venu, under the Malabar Devaswom Board, requested an explanation from the temple committee. Devaswom Trustee Rama Varma Raja also issued a letter to the temple’s Executive Officer, calling for purification rituals in consultation with the Thantri (chief priest) due to the perceived desecration of the temple grounds by the event.
