Kerala HC declines bail to 39 accused in Kollam Puttingal temple fireworks tragedy

Refusing the bail to 39 accused, including the temple Trust officials, the judge observed that Kerala has developed a very unhealthy cultural practice that any religious festival or ceremony must be glamorised by fireworks and elephant parade.

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“It is high time we banned or controlled the use of fireworks, explosive substances and elephant parades in connection with festivals and ceremonies. No religion will promote or sponsor such explosive ceremonies,” the judge said.

The judge also observed that “the officers functioning under law do not have guts and commitments to enforce the law.” Noting that the bureaucracy requires refinement, the Court said if the officials had been stern, such an unfortunate incident would not have happened in Puttingal Devi temple.