Union minister Alphons Kannanthanam on Monday alleged that the state government has turned Sabarimala into a battlefield. He also criticised the government for not providing basic facilities for pilgrims.

Ayappa devotees are not terrorists. The police action against the devotees must be reviewed. Kerala seems to be under police rule. The devotees are staging protest by chanting mantras. They should not be arrested. It is against democracy. Government is responsible for all the issues in Sabarimala,” said the minister.

“A situation worse than emergency is happening here. The devotees are not allowed to ascend the shrine. Section 144 has been imposed for no reason", Kannanthanam added.