A view of the Thrissur Pooram | Photo Credit: K.K. NAJEEB The Thiruvambady Devaswom has rejected the Crime Branch report on the alleged disruption of Thrissur Pooram in April 2024, accusing investigators of attempting to shift blame onto the Devaswom while concealing the facts.Devaswom secretary K.
Girish Kumar said the Devaswom would never conspire to disrupt the festival or undermine the grandeur of its 237-year-old tradition. He alleged that serious lapses had occurred on the part of the police during the festival.The Devaswom was willing to correct any lapses on its part if investigators identified them, he said, but maintained that holding all its representatives responsible for the disruption was unjustified.To meet MinistersMr.
Girish Kumar said the Devaswom would meet Chief Minister, Home Minister, and Devaswom Minister to explain its position and establish the ‘actual facts.’ After consulting experts and lawyers, the Devaswom would explore further legal steps and seek an impartial reinvestigation, he added.His response comes after the Crime Branch reportedly submitted the investigation report to the government, seeking permission to prosecute eight office-bearers of the Thiruvambady Devaswom. The report is understood to invoke serious charges, including conspiracy and incitement to riot.The reported findings have also raised questions over the scope of the investigation, as there is allegedly no mention of the role of M.R.
Ajith Kumar, the then Additional Director General of Police, who had faced allegations in connection with the controversy.Probe in Oct. 2024The then Pinarayi Vijayan-led LDF government had ordered the investigation in October 2024, following allegations, including from the Opposition, that a conspiracy involving the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Mr.
Ajith Kumar had led to the disruption of the Pooram. These allegations remain distinct from the findings of the latest report.A report submitted earlier by former State Police Chief Darvesh Sahib had pointed to lapses in the discharge of official duties, but no further action had followed then.
The latest Crime Branch findings have now drawn renewed scrutiny for reportedly focussing on 'lapses’ by the Thiruvambady Devaswom.Mr. Girish Kumar said the Devaswom would pursue the matter with the government before deciding on its next course of action.
Published - October 22, 2026 06:45 pm IST