Chopper over Hill Shrine: Kerala HC closes further proceedings on report

Kochi: High court on Monday closed further proceedings on a report submitted by the Sabarimala special commissioner regarding the unauthorised movement of a helicopter owned by the Indian Coast Guard over the Sabarimala temple, noting that the police had registered a case in connection with the alleged incident.The report stated that, around noon on April 23, a helicopter was seen flying over Sannidhanam and that the passengers allegedly took photographs using a mobile phone. It was further alleged that the helicopter hovered for about 20 seconds near the Sannidhanam area before flying away and later returning to capture more images from a lower altitude.While considering the matter, the court was informed by the state govt that a case had been registered at the Pamba police station under Section 118(e) of the Kerala Police Act, which penalises any person who knowingly commits an act causing danger to the public or threatening public safety. Police are investigating the case under the supervision of the additional director general of police, who is also the chief police coordinator at Sabarimala. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard informed that the helicopter had deviated towards the temple area due to adverse weather conditions.Observing that nothing further survived for consideration in the matter, the court closed the proceedings on the report.