The Kerala High Court recently allowed the Travancore Devaswom Board to proceed with the selection process for Melsanthies (head priests) for the Sabarimala and Malikappuram temples for the year 2024-25. This decision came after a suo moto review initiated by the court, responding to concerns regarding the qualifications of candidates for these esteemed positions.
Selection Process and Guidelines
The court mandated the Travancore Devaswom Commissioner to publish the select lists by October 12, 2024, and conduct a draw of lots on October 17. The selection process is grounded in established precedents, which stress that candidates must possess a minimum of ten years of continuous experience as Melsanthies within the last twelve years, particularly in temples with specific worship patterns.
Examination of Candidate Qualifications
The court’s decision stems from previous judgments highlighting the necessity for the Devaswom Board to adhere to a rigorous selection process. Concerns were raised that some candidates lacked the requisite experience outlined in the official notification, potentially undermining the integrity of the selection process. The court referenced earlier rulings, emphasizing that only those with the best qualifications and experiences should be considered.
Previous Rulings and Their Implications
In its deliberations, the court referenced a 2001 ruling, establishing that the Travancore Devaswom Board, as a state entity, must follow proper procedures during the selection of Melsanthies. Previous judgments have reinforced that candidates must meet stringent criteria, including the submission of valid experience certificates in prescribed formats.
Actions Taken by the Court
The court highlighted that certain candidates had been permitted to file new experience certificates, even if they did not conform to previous directives. It determined that the inclusion of these candidates in the selection list would be subject to further scrutiny and possible re-evaluation.
Conclusion and Future Proceedings
In conclusion, the Kerala High Court has authorized the continuation of the selection process while ensuring compliance with established criteria. The matter is set for further review on October 14, where the court will assess the validity of the candidate selections, ensuring adherence to both the procedural guidelines and the principles of fair practice in selecting Melsanthies for these historically significant temples. This ongoing oversight reflects the court's commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the selection process within the Travancore Devaswom Board.
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