THE Batu Caves temple management has banned kavadi carriers from entering the complex, after it was issued a RM1,000 fine for flouting standard operating procedures (SOP) over the weekend.
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple chairman R. Nadarajah told The Malaysian Insight that a large gathering took place on temple grounds on Sunday, with people not complying with Covid-19 SOP.
“In a viral video of the incident, many are seen without face masks and not practising social distancing.”
He said he initially advised kavadi-bearers that they can turn up with a maximum of 10 people in the group.
“But after this incident, I will not allow any kavadi-bearer into temple grounds until the government finalises the SOP for Thaipusam.
“This is because if authorities can fine the temple, they have every right to issue individual compounds to the public.
“I do not want that to happen.”
Kavadi is a ceremonial sacrifice and offering practised by devotees during the worship of Lord Murugan. It is a central part of Thaipusam.
Nadarajah said the National Security Council will likely have a meeting regarding the guidelines today.
“After the viral video, I am worried that they will implement more restrictions for Thaipusam.”
After Deepavali, Thaipusam is the biggest festival for Hindus, who gather in the millions for the annual celebration at temples across Malaysia.
The festival’s date is determined by the full moon in the month of Thai in the Hindu calendar – typically January or February.
Thaipusam falls on January 18 this year. – January 11, 2022.
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