ORDER

Anil K. Narendran, J.

By the proceedings dated 19.03.2022, Registry was directed to initiate suo motu proceedings based on a news item that appeared in Manorama News Online regarding irregularities in the sale of Vazhipadu items in Vaikom Sree Mahadeva Temple, especially, in the sale of 'Koovalamala'. A CD containing the news item that appeared in the online media is annexed to this DBP. A copy of the DBP along with CD has already been served on the learned Senior Government Pleader and also the learned Standing Counsel for Travancore Devaswom Board. On 21.03.2022, the Assistant Devaswom Commissioner, Travancore Devaswom Board, Vaikom; the Temple Advisory Committee, Vaikom Sree Mahadeva Temple, represented by its Secretary; and Sri.C.G. Radhakrishnan, the successful bidder, were suo motu impleaded as additional respondents 6 to 8.

2. The news item that appeared in Manorama News Online pointed out serious irregularities in the sale of Vazhipadu items in Vaikom Sree Mahadeva Temple, especially in the sale of 'Koovalamala'. The additional 8^th respondent is the successful bidder supplying Vazhipadu items and garlands in Vaikom Sree Mahadeva Temple.

3. In the order dated 21.03.2022 th