The Kerala High Court has issued strict directions regulating media activity at Sabarimala. This includes a complete ban on the use of helicams (drone cameras) by media persons. There are also limitations on videography near the sanctum sanctorum. A Division Bench of Justice Anil K Narendran and Justice Muralee Krishna S passed the order. They did this while disposing of a suo motu petition. The petition was initiated after two incidents of unauthorized videography during the 2024–25 Mandala-Makaravilakku festival.
The Court referred to Sabarimala temple’s status as a Special Security Zone under Section 83(1) of the Kerala Police Act. It emphasized that the use of helicams by media is impermissible. However, it allowed police surveillance through helicams for crowd management and security purposes. One incident involved a temporary staff member filming the ‘Harivarasanam’ prayer on January 2, 2025. Another incident featured a cameraman climbing railings near the Sopanam. He did this to capture visuals of the ‘Thanka Anki’ procession on December 25, 2024. The police did not take action at the time. They cited a lack of a specific prohibitory order from the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB).
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The Court has now directed the TDB to make a final decision. This decision must be made in consultation with the Sabarimala temple’s Tantri. They need to determine whether videography should be permitted in areas such as Melethirumuttam and near the sanctum sanctorum. The decision must be submitted to the Division Bench alongside a report from the Sabarimala Special Commissioner. It was further noted during the hearing that prior Court orders restricted videography above the Pathinettampadi. However, no such clarity existed for other sensitive locations.
Photographs submitted to the Court showed widespread use of tripods and camera setups by various media outlets. Some setups were even placed on rooftops. In response, the Court prohibited placing tripods on Sopanam railings. Equipment for live telecasts of events, such as the Makarajyothi darshan, must be installed only in designated areas. Permission from TDB and police authorities is required.
The Bench also stressed that videography, even where allowed, must not interfere with the devotion or movement of pilgrims. The TDB and police have received instructions to regulate media presence strictly. They must ensure that only accredited personnel receive identity cards and accommodation at Sannidhanam. This approach avoids unauthorized access by vloggers or unverified reporters.
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