Pampa Prepares for Global Ayyappa Conclave; Chief Minister to Inaugurate
Pampa is set to host the Global Ayyappa Conclave today, an event aimed at developing basic infrastructure in Sabarimala. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the conclave, which is expected to draw 3,000 representatives.
The event will unveil a master plan worth 1,300 crore rupees for Sabarimala’s development. A primary objective of the conclave is to identify sponsors for the execution of these projects. The proceedings are scheduled to commence at 9:30 AM, with Minister V.N. Vasavan presiding over the session. Technical sessions are slated to begin at 11:40 AM.
The High Court has mandated that the conclave be conducted without causing inconvenience to pilgrims, leading to strict vigilance from both the Devaswom Board and the police.
**What is the Global Ayyappa Conclave?**
Organized jointly by the Travancore Devaswom Board and the State Government, this event aims to discuss plans for developing Sabarimala into a global pilgrimage center. It is being held in connection with the Devaswom Board’s platinum jubilee celebrations.
**Objectives:**
The primary goal of the Global Ayyappa Conclave is to enhance basic infrastructure in Sabarimala. It seeks to unite Ayyappa devotees and organizations from various parts of the world to formulate a common policy for Sabarimala’s future and explore development opportunities.
**Estimated Cost:**
The estimated cost for organizing the event is approximately 7 crore rupees.
**Participation:**
Around 3,500 representatives are expected to participate. Reports indicate that the Tamil Nadu government is the only state government that has accepted the Devaswom Board’s invitation to attend. Entry will be restricted to pass holders only.
**Discussion Topics:**
Three main topics will be discussed:
1. **Sabarimala Development:** Presentation of the 1,300 crore rupee master plan projects for Sabarimala’s development.
2. **Pilgrim Tourism:** Integrating Sabarimala into spiritual tourism initiatives.
3. **Crowd Management:** Finding effective ways to manage crowds during the Mandalam-Makaravilakku seasons.
**Political Controversies:**
The Global Ayyappa Conclave has faced significant political controversy. Opposition parties have accused the government of using the event for political gain, labeling it as a government political agenda. Critics allege that the government is attempting to regain devotee support, which was lost during the controversy surrounding the entry of young women, by leveraging the Devaswom Board.
**Court Intervention:**
Some individuals and organizations approached the High Court and Supreme Court, challenging the use of Devaswom funds for the event. However, the courts permitted the event to proceed, provided it was conducted with the High Court’s approval and that fund utilization remained transparent.
**Controversies in Promotion:**
Controversies also arose regarding the promotional materials, which featured images of the Chief Minister and the Devaswom Minister but omitted the image of Lord Ayyappa. The opposition claimed this indicated that the event was tailored to serve government interests.
**Boycott and Alternative Event:**
Alleging a political agenda, Sangh Parivar organizations boycotted the Global Ayyappa Conclave. They have decided to organize an alternative ‘Vishwas Sangamam’ (Faith Conclave) in Delhi. Justice Indu Malhotra, who penned a dissenting note on the young women’s entry verdict, is the chief guest for this alternative event.
**Devaswom Board’s Stance:**
The Devaswom Board has dismissed the criticisms, with both the Board President and the Devaswom Minister asserting that the conclave is purely spiritual and a platform to discuss pilgrimage-related matters, devoid of political motivations.