2026 Supreme(Online)(Ker) 7288

IN THE HIGH COURT OF KERALA AT ERNAKULAM
RAJA VIJAYARAGHAVAN V, K. V. JAYAKUMAR, JJ
SUO MOTU – Appellant
Versus
STATE OF KERALA – Respondent

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K. V. Jayakumar, J.

This report of the Sabarimala Special Commissioner is with respect to the selection of Melshanthis to the Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple and Malikappuram Temple for the year 1201 M.E ( 2025- 26) by draw of lots. The Special Commissioner reported that in compliance with the order of this Court in SSCR No. 28/2025, the selection process of the Melshanthis to the Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple and Malikapuram Temple was conducted and the entire selection process was completed in the presence of the Observer as per the directives issued by this Court.

2. When the matter was taken up on 23.10.2025, the learned Standing Counsel for the Travancore Devaswom Board, in response to the query posed by this Court, submitted that, to assist the Melshanthi in performing his duties and rituals at the Sannidhanam, 20 assistants are engaged by the Melshanthi himself. These assistants would support Melshanthi throughout his entire tenure. The learned Standing Counsel would further submit that the Melshanthis are paid honorarium by the Board.

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