KOZHIKODE: Revenue authorities in Malappuram served a stop memo dated Jan 8, halting preparatory work in Bharatapuzha River at Thirunavaya for Mahamagha Mahotsavam, citing violations of the Kerala River Protection Act (2001). Billed as Kumbh Mela of the south, the event is scheduled from Jan 18 to Feb 3.In the notice to the convenor of the event’s organizing committee, the Thirunavaya village officer said authorities had noticed that a temporary bridge was being built by encroaching on the river and that JCBs were being used to level the riverbed. The notice said these activities were offences under the Kerala River Protection Act and could attract penalties.
But organizers claimed they had applied for the necessary permissions from various departments as early as Nov and that no objections were raised at the time. “We do not understand the reason for issuing this stop memo now. We were in constant touch with officials and had informed them of the arrangements in writing,” said Mahamandaleshwar Swami Anandavanam Bharati.He claimed that the event had to be held on the riverbed because large crowds are expected, making it essential for crowd management. He told reporters the event will go ahead as planned and added that the organizers will take legal recourse.Describing the move as another difficulty faced in conducting Hindu religious rites, he alleged that the district administration aims to disrupt the event or create issues citing the huge crowd.Organizers said the construction of a temporary 300m pedestrian bridge connecting the temple to the river was 80% complete and that five JCBs were deployed to clear shrubs and prepare the area between Dec 26 and Jan 11.Several Hindu organizations also protested against the move, warning that denial of permission could lead to consequences.Organizers said governor Rajendra Arlekar will inaugurate the event, which is expected to draw a large spiritual congregation.
