Tension in Sabarimala as Local Shopkeepers Attack Telugu Devotees

Tension broke out in Sabarimala after local shopkeepers allegedly attacked Telugu Ayyappa devotees. The incident began when a devotee questioned a shopkeeper about being overcharged for a water bottle. The argument escalated, and the shop owner reportedly struck the devotee on the head with a glass bottle, causing a serious injury.

Following the assault, a large number of devotees from the Telugu states gathered at the shop and staged a protest, demanding strict action against the shopkeeper. Police intervened at the scene to control the situation and prevent further clashes between the devotees and the local traders.