Caste Discrimination In Kerala Temple? Govt Vows Action Amid Row Over 'Kazhakam' Appointment

Balu, an employee from a backward community, was appointed to perform 'Kazhakam' duties at the temple and upon his arrival the temple’s tantris (chief priests) allegedly objected to his presence.

'Kazhakam' refers to a group within the temple hierarchy responsible for tasks such as making garlands and assisting in ceremonial duties.

Source : Pexels

The Kerala government has pledged to investigate a recent incident of alleged caste discrimination at the historic Koodalmanikyam Temple in Thrissur district. The issue came to light after an employee, Balu, was reportedly denied his assigned duties due to his caste background, sparking outrage and debates in the state Assembly.

The Incident

Balu, an employee from a backward community, was appointed to perform 'Kazhakam' duties at the temple. However, upon his arrival, the temple’s tantris (chief priests) allegedly objected to his presence, threatening to stop performing rituals if he was allowed to work, reported PTI. Following their complaint, the Cochin Devaswom Board temporarily reassigned Balu to office duties instead of his designated role.

'Kazhakam' refers to a group within the temple hierarchy responsible for tasks such as making garlands and assisting in ceremonial duties. The Koodalmanikyam Temple, located in Irinjalakuda, is one of the few temples in Kerala dedicated to Lord Bharata, the brother of Lord Rama.

Government’s Response

Kerala Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan clarified that it was the Cochin Devaswom administrator, not the board chairman, who reassigned Balu. He reiterated the government’s stance against caste-based discrimination and assured that a report would be sought, followed by appropriate action.

"We will look into it," Vasavan said in response to Congress MLA A P Anil Kumar, who raised the issue in the Assembly. Kumar condemned the incident as an insult to the state and questioned how the administrator could act on the tantris' complaint. He also alleged that a purification ritual was conducted after Balu left the temple, calling it "very wrong" and demanding government action.

Assembly Debate

The incident sparked a heated discussion in the Assembly during the budget session. CPI(M) leader and former minister Kadakampally Surendran emphasised that such incidents highlight the persistence of caste discrimination and untouchability in some temples and "in the dark minds of some people." He urged collective efforts to eradicate such practices.

The government had previously stated in the Assembly that individuals appointed in accordance with existing laws and regulations, regardless of their caste, must be allowed to work in temples. The Koodalmanikyam Temple has two 'Kazhakam' positions—one appointed by the tantris and the other filled through official regulations.

The Kerala State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) has also taken suo motu cognizance of the incident and ordered an investigation.