Former Judge Appointed as Observer to Ensure Fairness and Transparency in the Selection Process for 2026-2027
In a significant move to ensure transparency and fairness in the selection process of Melsanthies at the Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple and Malikappuram Temple for the year 1202 ME (2026-2027), the Kerala High Court has directed the selection committee to strictly adhere to the guidelines established by the Supreme Court and previous High Court orders. The decision was delivered by a Division Bench comprising Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V and K. V. Jayakumar.
The court emphasized the importance of conducting the selection process in accordance with the Supreme Court's order dated September 6, 2011, which laid down the terms of settlement regarding the constitution of the selection committee and the procedures for awarding marks and conducting the draw of lots. This process is critical as it ensures that the chosen candidates meet the high standards required for the esteemed position of Melsanthi at one of India's most revered pilgrimage sites.
To oversee the integrity of the process, the court has appointed former Judge Mr. Justice V.G. Arun as an Observer. His role will be to ensure that the selection proceedings are conducted without bias, and the final draw of lots is carried out fairly. The Observer is tasked with filing a report before the court after the interview process to confirm that no undue advantages are given to any candidate.
The court has also laid down specific procedural safeguards, including the requirement that entries in the mark sheets be made only with a ballpoint pen, and these mark sheets must be countersigned by the Observer. Additionally, the entire selection proceedings are to be video-recorded, and the entry to the Sopanam enclosure during the draw of lots must adhere to previous judicial directions.
As part of the selection process, the Senior Raja of the Pandalam Royal Family is directed to provide a male and a female child, both under ten years of age, to draw the lots for Sabarimala and Malikappuram respectively, in accordance with established traditions.
The court's directive comes in response to a report filed by the Special Commissioner of Sabarimala, who highlighted the need for stringent measures to maintain the sanctity and fairness of the selection process. The court has mandated that all proceedings, including the production of the selection process CD, mark lists, and shortlist, be submitted to the court in a sealed cover for review before the draw of lots can proceed.
The decision reflects the court's commitment to upholding religious customs while ensuring a transparent and unbiased selection process. It also underscores the importance of adhering to judicial precedents and the guidelines set forth by the highest court to maintain the integrity of religious appointments.
Bottom Line :
Sabarimala Melsanthi selection - Selection Committee must strictly follow Supreme Court-approved settlement and earlier High Court guidelines - Former Judge appointed as Observer - Mark sheets to be filled only in ballpoint pen, countersigned by Observer, proceedings to be video-recorded, and draw of lots to proceed only after production of report, mark lists, shortlist and CD before Court.
Statutory provision(s): Supreme Court order dated 06.09.2011 in Civil Appeal No.2570-71 of 2003, Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution of India, previous High Court orders in SSCR No.17 of 2018, SSCR No.11 of 2019, DBA No.7 of 2019, SSCR No.10 of 2020, DBA No.10 of 2020, SSCR No.5 of 2021, SSCR No.12 of 2022, SSCR No.23 of 2023, SSCR No.64 of 2024, and W.P.(C) No.35545 of 2023.
Suo Motu v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2989335
