New Delhi, October 19: The central government had warned three southern states including Kerala of protests by Hindu groups ahead of the opening of gates of Sabarimala temple, it was learnt on Friday. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had written to chief secretaries and DGPs of Kerala, Karnataka and Karnataka, asking them to take necessary precautionary measures to maintain law and order as Hindu outfits were planning protests.

Massive protests continued in Pamba and Nilakkal against the Supreme Court's verdict allowing entry of women of all age group in the Sabarimala temple. Three women including a journalist made a failed attempt to visit the hill shrine. Although, the women were escorted by riot police personnel, the agitating devotees forced them to return.

Kavita, the Hyderabad-based journalist and her four-member crew along with another woman devotee Rehna Fathima from Kochi accompanied by a 100 policemen led by Inspector General of Police S Sreejith started their two-hour climb. When they reached the first entry point to the temple, hundreds of protesters were lying on the road leading to the hilltop temple. Sabarimala Devotees Visit Vavar Mosque Before Arriving at the Temple, Here Is Why.

Sreejith tried to clam the crowd and told them that the government has decided not to use force and asked them to relent. After an hour, Sreejith told the media that he had a word with the temple tantri who categorically told him he would be forced to close down the temple if there was any violation of tradition and faith.

"So we told the two women about it, and they also decided to abandon their trek and return, asking for protection till they reached home," Sreejith said, adding that would be provided. "So we are taking them back." Angry devotees meanwhile damaged Fathima's house in Kochi. BSNL has issued a statement saying it was not connected with Fathima's action, who is a staff of their Ernakulam Business Area.

The Sabarimala temple opened its doors on Wednesday for the first time since the September 28 Supreme Court verdict that allowed women from the 10-50 age group to enter the famed shrine. However, no woman from the 10-50 age group could enter the hill temple.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 19, 2018 01:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).