Section 144 to be imposed around Sabarimala temple ahead of special prayer

As the Sabarimala temple is set to open its gate for a special prayer on November 5, Pathanamthitta district collector has decided to impose Section 144 in various parts around the temple.

Section 144 will be imposed in Sannidhanam, Pamba, Nilakkal and Elavunkal from November 4-6.

The authorities will also increase the police presence in the area to avoid the break out of any potential clash.

Clashes between police and protesters broke out when the temple opened its gate for the first time in October since the Supreme Court's ruling.

For centuries, the Sabarimala temple in Kerala has banned women and girls between the age of 10 and 50 from entering the holy site. 

Entry to women was restricted even after the apex Court's ruling that allowed women the right to worship in the temple.

The police have arrested over 3500 protesters in connection with the violence that erupted in the state in the wake of the protests last month.

Around 529 cases have also been registered across the state.