Kerala High Court's Guidelines on Media Accreditation and Access During Sabarimala Festivals

 Kerala High Court's Guidelines on Media Accreditation and Access During Sabarimala Festivals

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Introduction

The Sabarimala pilgrimage season attracts millions of devotees annually, necessitating meticulous planning to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of festivities. In this context, the Kerala High Court has played a pivotal role in balancing the interests of media coverage with the imperatives of security and public order. A significant development in this regard is the Court's acceptance of the Special Commissioner's report concerning media accreditation and its subsequent issuance of comprehensive guidelines.

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Case Overview

In response to concerns raised about the unregulated presence of media personnel during the Sabarimala festivals, the Kerala High Court initiated suo motu proceedings. The Special Commissioner for Sabarimala submitted a detailed report highlighting issues related to unauthorized media access, unregulated accommodation, and the potential security risks posed by such unregulated activities.

The Court, upon reviewing the report, recognized the necessity of establishing a structured framework to manage media presence during the festival. This led to the formulation of guidelines aimed at ensuring that media activities do not compromise the security arrangements or disrupt the religious sanctity of the proceedings.

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Key Guidelines Issued by the Court

1. Media Accreditation Process

   • Advance Registration: Media organizations intending to cover the Sabarimala festivals are required to submit a declaration form to the Public Relations Officer of the Travancore Devaswom Board at least 15 days prior to the temple's opening. This form must include details of the media personnel and a copy of their accreditation card.

   • Issuance of Identity Cards: Accredited media personnel will be issued identity cards by the Travancore Devaswom Board, based on recommendations from the Chief Vigilance and Security Officer (Superintendent of Police). These cards must be carried at all times during the festival.

2. Regulated Accommodation and Access

   • Designated Areas: Media personnel are to be accommodated in specified areas to prevent unauthorized access to restricted zones within the temple premises.

   • Supervised Movement: Movement of media personnel within the temple complex is to be closely monitored to ensure compliance with security protocols and to prevent disruptions to the religious activities.

3. Use of Technology

   • Prohibition of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): The use of drones or helicams by media personnel within the Sabarimala premises is strictly prohibited, given the site's designation as a Special Security Zone under the Kerala Police Act, 2011.

   • Videography Restrictions: The Travancore Devaswom Board is tasked with deciding on the permissibility of videography in specific areas, such as Melethirumuttam and near the Sanctum Sanctorum, in consultation with the Special Commissioner.

4. Compliance and Enforcement

   • Monitoring Committees: A dedicated committee will be established to oversee the implementation of these guidelines and address any violations promptly.

   • Legal Consequences: Non-compliance with the established protocols may result in revocation of accreditation and other legal actions as deemed appropriate.

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Legal Implications

The Kerala High Court's directives underscore the principle that public safety and religious sanctity must take precedence over unrestricted media access. By instituting a structured accreditation process and delineating clear boundaries for media activities, the Court has reinforced the state's authority to regulate public order during significant religious events.

Furthermore, the Court's emphasis on compliance with security protocols aligns with constitutional provisions that allow for reasonable restrictions on fundamental rights, such as the freedom of the press, in the interest of public order and morality.

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Conclusion

The Kerala High Court's intervention in regulating media accreditation and access during the Sabarimala festivals represents a judicious balance between upholding media freedoms and ensuring the safety and sanctity of religious practices. As the guidelines are implemented, they will serve as a model for managing media presence in other high-security religious events, fostering an environment where both journalistic duties and public interests are harmoniously aligned.