The new UDF government in Kerala has begun withdrawing all non-serious cases filed against Ayyappa devotees during the 2018 Sabarimala protests, marking a significant shift from the previous LDF administration’s approach. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala announced in the assembly that the government is taking immediate steps to quash the cases, which number over 2,600, in consultation with Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan.

During the 2018 Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all ages into Sabarimala, the Pinarayi Vijayan government had deployed police to escort activists like Kavita Jakkala and Rehana Fathima to the temple, leading to widespread protests. Devotees were arrested, beaten, and one even died during the clashes. The previous government had filed 2,624 cases against peaceful protesters, refusing to withdraw them despite criticism.

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The new government is also considering withdrawing the previous affidavit filed in the Supreme Court supporting women’s entry and replacing it with one that upholds the traditional customs. Devaswom Minister K. Muralidharan stated that the government will not spare anyone who stole the gold of Ayyappa, emphasizing that Sabarimala is not a party office but a place of faith.