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Kerala High Court Scrutinizes Sabarimala Police Appointments, Warns Against 'Institutional Entrenchment'

ERNAKULAM: The Kerala High Court has initiated a detailed examination into the appointment of police personnel at Sabarimala, asserting that the continuous posting of a single officer in a key position for a prolonged period can lead to "institutional entrenchment," which adversely affects transparency and efficiency.

A Division Bench comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K. V. Jayakumar made the observation while reviewing a report from the Special Commissioner regarding a change in the Police Controller at Sannidhanam for the 2025–26 Mandala–Makaravilakku festival season.

Case Background

The matter came before the court through a suo motu proceeding (SSCR NO. 34 OF 2025) based on a report concerning the administration of the Sabarimala temple. The report highlighted the replacement of the Police Controller at Sannidhanam, a position of significant responsibility during the peak pilgrimage season.

The court noted with concern that the officer who was recently replaced had been serving in the same capacity for over two decades.

Court's Observations on Prolonged Postings

The Bench expressed a strong view against such long tenures in critical posts. It observed that holding a position of responsibility for an extended duration carries inherent risks.

> "We are of the view that the continued posting of the same officer in such a position of responsibility for such a prolonged duration can result in institutional entrenchment, adversely affecting transparency, efficiency, and the impartial administration of the affairs."

While the officer in question has now been replaced, the court has shifted its focus to ensuring the suitability of the new appointee, Sri. Krishnakumar R.

Directions Issued for Enhanced Scrutiny

To ensure the integrity and competence of the new appointee and to conduct a broader review of police postings at the holy shrine, the High Court issued a series of directives:

• Impleadment: The Chief Police Co-ordinator, ADGP (HQ), Thiruvananthapuram, has been impleaded as an additional respondent in the case to provide necessary information directly to the court.

• Vetting of New Appointee: The court directed the Chief Police Co-ordinator to submit a comprehensive report on the newly appointed officer, Sri. Krishnakumar R. This report must detail his "service inputs, including his performance, character, and conduct," and must explicitly state whether any adverse remarks or disciplinary proceedings exist against him.

• Wider Audit of Postings: The court's scrutiny extends beyond a single appointment. It has ordered the police leadership to furnish a complete list of all police officers holding critical positions at both Sannidhanam and Pamba. The list must include the duration of their respective postings.

• Identifying Long-Serving Officers: Specifically, the court has sought details of all officers who have been continuously posted at Sabarimala for more than two years, along with information about their current assignments.

Implications of the Order

The court's order signifies a move towards greater judicial oversight in administrative appointments at sensitive and high-stakes locations like Sabarimala. By flagging the issue of "institutional entrenchment," the High Court has emphasized the importance of periodic rotation of officers to maintain impartiality, prevent the formation of vested interests, and ensure administrative accountability.

The case has been posted for further hearing on November 14, 2025, by which time the police department is expected to submit the required reports.