The opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) has decided to stay away from the Global Ayyappa Meet being organised by the LDF government and the Travancore Devaswom Board at Pampa. The decision was taken at the UDF state committee meeting held online on Tuesday, after front partners expressed concerns about the political motives behind the event.
UDF leaders alleged that the LDF is attempting to use the sentiments of Ayyappa devotees to attract majority community votes and overcome anti-incumbency pressures. “The government has not withdrawn the affidavit filed in the Supreme Court supporting the entry of women into Sabarimala,” a UDF leader pointed out.
Leaders also noted that while the LDF government is pushing for this mega event, it has failed to continue the ‘Pamba Sangamam’ — a gathering of devotees from southern states — which was organised under previous UDF governments. They further questioned the involvement of political parties and leaders in matters of faith.
The UDF also highlighted that the government has not withdrawn criminal cases against devotees who participated in the Namajapa procession, raising doubts about its true intentions.
While making its stand clear, the UDF stated that it will not prevent devotees from attending the event, but as a political front, it will not participate.