Long-Term Posting Of Same Police Officer At Sabarimala Can Undermine Transparency, Efficiency: Kerala High Court

The division bench comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K V Jayakumar issued the direction while considering a Special Commissioner report pertaining to change of Police Controller at Sannidhanam during the Mandala - Makaravilakku festival season 2025-26.

The Court noted that the previous officer who served as the Police Controller at Sannidhanam had been serving in the position for a period of over two decades and noted that the continuous posting can result in institutional entrenchment, affecting transparency, and efficiency of the administration.

“We are of the view that the continued posting of the same officer in such a position of responsibility for such a prolonged duration can result in institutional entrenchment, adversely affecting transparency, efficiency, and the impartial administration of the affairs.” the bench noted.

The Court has thus directed the Chief Police Co-ordinator to furnish a report detailing service inputs, including performance, character, and conduct of the newly appointed officer.

It has further directed to furnish the details of all police officers currently holding critical positions at Sannidhanam and Pamba, along with the duration of their respective postings. The Court has directed that the list must include the names of all officers who have been continuously posted at Sabarimala for a period exceeding two years, together with details of their current assignments.

The case is posted on November 14.

Case Title: Suo Motu v State of Kerala and Ors

Case No: SSCR 34/ 2025

Counsel for Respondent: S Rajmohan (Sr. GP)

Amicus Curiae for Sabarimala Special Commissioner: Sayujya Radhakrishnan

Click Here To Read/ Download Interim Order