Sabarimala Pilgrims Get Special Permission to Carry Coconuts in Flight Cabins
In a significant move to accommodate religious practices, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has granted special permission for Sabarimala pilgrims to carry coconuts in aircraft cabins during their pilgrimages. The exemption, announced by Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu, will remain in effect until January 20, 2025.
The directive, issued through an official memorandum dated October 25, 2024, specifically addresses the traditional practice of carrying “irumudi” (the sacred bundle) by Sabarimala devotees. This exemption modifies the existing restrictions on coconuts, which are typically classified as restricted items in flight cabins.
Security Measures Remain in Place
While granting this religious accommodation, the BCAS has emphasized that security protocols will not be compromised. According to the official memorandum:
– All coconuts will undergo mandatory screening through X-ray
– ETD (Explosive Trace Detection) checks will be conducted
– Physical verification will be performed
– Final clearance will be subject to screener satisfaction
The Sabarimala temple, located in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district, is one of the most visited pilgrim sites in India. Devotees traditionally carry coconuts in their “irumudi” as part of their religious offerings to Lord Ayyappa, the presiding deity of the temple.
This exemption addresses a long-standing concern of pilgrims who previously faced difficulties carrying this essential religious offering while traveling by air to Kerala for the pilgrimage. The timing of the exemption is particularly relevant as it covers multiple Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage seasons.
The exemption has been granted under rule 45 (2) and rule 62 (2) of the Aircraft Security Rules, 2023, demonstrating the government’s commitment to balancing security requirements with religious sentiments. It specifically modifies provisions contained in serial No 22 (coconut) of Annexure-II of Addendum to AvSec Order 2/2022 issued on January 19, 2023.
The order has come into immediate effect and will be implemented across all Indian airports serving routes to Kerala. Airlines and security personnel have been instructed to accommodate this exemption while maintaining standard security protocols.
This decision represents a significant step in facilitating religious tourism while maintaining aviation security standards. Pilgrims planning their journey to Sabarimala can now carry this important religious offering with greater convenience, subject to the specified security checks.
