Sabarimala ‘devaprasnam’ row: Administrative officer sacked

Thursday, April 5, 2012: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) on Thursday suspended Sabarimala Administrative officer M. Rajan in connection with the ‘Devaprasnam controversy’.
The astrological examination held at Sabarimala yesterday sparked a controversy after allegations came up that the ritual did not have the required permissions and that the relevant authorities had not been informed prior to its conduct.
The astrological examination was held in the presence of traditional Chief priest (Tanthri) Kantararu Maheswararu and head priest (Melshanti) Balamurali but the Tanthri was informed of it only on Tuesday night.
‘Deva Prasnams’ are normally held in the temple only after taking permission from the Tanthri well in advance.