DYFI flags at temple festival in Kollam: TDB orders vigilance probe
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Thiruvananthapuram: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has ordered a vigilance probe into the alleged display of Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) flags and the performance of songs glorifying the CPI(M) at a temple festival in Kollam district. TDB president P S Prasanth announced the investigation on Saturday, following concerns raised over the incident at Kadakkal temple during the festival.
The Congress-led UDF condemned the incident, accusing the ruling party of attempting to create space for the BJP in the state. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan criticized the event, calling it a “shameless” attempt to politicize the temple festival. He pointed out that symbols of the Left party, along with the names of CPI(M) and DYFI, were displayed in a video, while a singer performed a song about former CPI(M) member Pushpan. Satheesan questioned why such activities were taking place at a temple, implying that the ruling party was trying to stir conflict to benefit the BJP.
Prasanth, speaking to a TV channel earlier, emphasized that displaying political flags or symbols inside temples is prohibited by the courts. He stated that the Board had issued a circular to all places of worship under its control regarding this matter. He added that the temple management committee organized the festival and, upon learning of the incident, the Board immediately issued a notice to them. He also confirmed that a vigilance probe had been initiated, and that strict action would follow based on its findings.
Prasanth further mentioned that a similar vigilance report was received last week regarding RSS drills conducted at a temple in Perumbavoor. The Board took a firm stance there as well, reiterating that political flags, symbols, or activities would not be permitted inside temples.
TDB member A Ajikumar emphasized that the Board's policy is clear: temple festivals should not serve as platforms for political activities, flags, or symbols. A meeting is scheduled for March 19 to discuss the issue further. Ajikumar clarified that the Board remains politically neutral and will take strict action against any violations.
With PTI inputs