Incident Details Emerge Amid Conflicting Accounts
PATHANAMTHITTA - Authorities have registered a police case following an Indian Coast Guard (ICG) helicopter's low-altitude passes over the Sabarimala Ayyappa Shrine on Thursday, April 23, 2026. The incident, which occurred between 12 pm and 12:30 pm, saw a 'Chetak' helicopter make four passes over the Sannidhanam area, with some reports suggesting it came within five metres of the sacred flagpole, the Kodimaram.
The core of the matter lies in the alleged flight without prior clearance, a violation that police state jeopardized public safety. An FIR has been filed, invoking Section 118(E) of the Kerala Police Act, a provision addressing grave violations of public order. The Special Commissioner (Sabarimala) has reportedly ordered an investigation by Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) S Sreejith.
Coast Guard Cites Weather, Police Focus on Procedure
The Indian Coast Guard has issued a statement asserting the helicopter was on a routine training sortie from Kochi, travelling to a location 60-80 nautical miles south. According to ICG sources, the deviation from its intended track and the subsequent low passes were a consequence of "high clouds and deteriorated weather" in the region. They maintain the aircraft returned safely to its Kochi base once conditions improved.
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However, police reports highlight the unusual nature of such a flight over a high-security zone like Sabarimala, which is often considered a no-fly area for such low-altitude operations. Videos circulating on social media appear to corroborate the low-flying aspect, drawing public attention and further fueling concerns.
Background: A Sensitive Locale
Sabarimala, a prominent pilgrimage site, is designated as a highly sensitive security zone. The proximity of military or security aircraft to such locations, especially at low altitudes, invariably raises alarm bells regarding potential security breaches or operational oversights. This incident has amplified existing security protocols surrounding the temple complex and its surroundings, extending up to Nilakkal. The Pampa police are leading the current probe.
