The Dasara festival at the Mutharamman Temple in Kulasekarapattinam commenced with a ceremonial flag hoisting on Sunday, Oct. 11, under extensive police arrangements designed to safeguard devotees and maintain order around the temple.
A total of 1,000 police officers from Madurai, Ramanathapuram, Virudhunagar, Sivaganga, Kanyakumari and Thoothukudi districts were deployed for the opening ceremony. The security detail was supervised by Thoothukudi Superintendent of Police Sivaprasad, with additional support from two Additional Superintendents, an Assistant Superintendent, five Deputy Superintendents, 32 inspectors and sub‑inspectors. Fifty plain‑clothes officers mingled with the crowd to enhance surveillance.
In addition to uniformed presence, 80 CCTV cameras were installed at key locations inside the temple and in surrounding areas. These cameras aid in real‑time monitoring and help police detect any unlawful activity during the festival.
The district police department emphasized that all necessary measures had been taken to ensure the safety of devotees and visitors while maintaining law and order. It warned that anyone engaging in illegal activities would be observed continuously and face strict legal action. With the flag hoisting marking the start of celebrations, attention now turns to the festival’s subsequent rituals, including the Soorasamharam scheduled for the night of Oct. 20.
