Addressing the media in Kannur, E.P. Jayarajan, a prominent central committee member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), firmly rejected the notion that the recent Global Ayyappa Sangamam was anything less than a success. He stated that while critics are welcome to their opinions, the assembly’s core mission was unequivocally focused on enhancing Sabarimala’s standing as a significant international pilgrimage destination.
Mr. Jayarajan criticized the Opposition’s limited perspective on the Sangamam, emphasizing that organizing such a spiritual conference is a right accessible to all. He further alleged that the opposition parties had sided with rival groups hosting alternative conferences, drawing a direct comparison between United Democratic Front leader V.D. Satheesan’s views and those of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
Reiterating the event’s purpose, Jayarajan highlighted its dual aim: to foster unity among Ayyappa devotees across the globe and to propel Sabarimala’s development into a world-renowned spiritual hub. He underscored the immense potential of Sabarimala’s growth to contribute significantly to Kerala’s economy, drawing a striking analogy to the economic prosperity Saudi Arabia enjoys from the global pilgrimages to Mecca.
When questioned about the portrayal of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan as an Ayyappa devotee, Mr. Jayarajan casually dismissed the criticisms. He asserted that such claims from detractors hold no real weight or significance.