Thiruvananthapuram, Aug. 8 -- The CPI(M)-led Left government in Kerala, which previously courted controversy over its move to facilitate the entry of women of menstrual age into the Lord Ayyappa temple, contrary to traditional customs, has now announced plans to organise a "Global Ayyappa Meet" ahead of the upcoming local body and Assembly elections in the state.
The government's decision has surprised many, as it appears to signal a slight shift from the usual political stance of the Communist administration, now opting to host a global gathering of Hindu devotees.
Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan stated that the state government, in collaboration with the Travancore Devaswom Board, will host the Global Ayyappa Sangamam in the third we...