Revenue Officials Stop Preparatory Work for Mahamagha Mahotsavam in Bharatapuzha River
Revenue authorities in Malappuram district have issued a stop memo, effectively halting all preparatory activities for the upcoming Mahamagha Mahotsavam in the Bharatapuzha River at Thirunavaya. The notice, dated January 8, cites clear violations of the Kerala River Protection Act of 2001 as the primary reason for this decisive action.
Officials Cite Violations of River Protection Act
The Thirunavaya village officer served the notice to the convenor of the event's organizing committee. Authorities observed that a temporary bridge was being constructed by encroaching on the river itself. Additionally, JCB machines were actively leveling the riverbed. These activities constitute offences under the Kerala River Protection Act and could attract significant penalties.
Organizers Express Confusion and Plan Legal Action
Event organizers claim they applied for all necessary permissions from various government departments as early as November. They state that no objections were raised at that time. "We do not understand the reason for issuing this stop memo now," said Mahamandaleshwar Swami Anandavanam Bharati. He emphasized that the committee maintained constant communication with officials and provided written details of all arrangements.
Swami Anandavanam Bharati explained that holding the event on the riverbed is essential for managing the large crowds expected to attend. He told reporters the event will proceed as scheduled from January 18 to February 3. The organizers intend to pursue legal recourse to challenge the stop memo.
Allegations of Administrative Hurdles
Describing the move as another difficulty in conducting Hindu religious rites, the Swami alleged that the district administration aims to disrupt the event. He suggested officials are creating issues by citing the anticipated huge crowd as a problem.
Scale of Preparations and Political Reactions
Organizers reported that construction of a temporary 300-meter pedestrian bridge, connecting the temple to the river, was 80% complete. Five JCB machines were deployed between December 26 and January 11 to clear shrubs and prepare the area.
Several Hindu organizations have protested against the stop memo. They warn that denying permission for the event, often billed as the Kumbh Mela of the south, could lead to serious consequences.
The organizers confirmed that Governor Rajendra Arlekar is scheduled to inaugurate the Mahamagha Mahotsavam. The spiritual congregation is expected to draw a massive number of devotees from across the region.
