Resolution Reached for Thrissur Pooram Exhibition Ground Rent Amid Controversy

In a recent development, the Cochin Devaswom Board (CDB) has issued an order allowing the use of the ground for the Thrissur Pooram exhibition without a rent hike. The order specifies that the current rent, which is not explicitly mentioned, will be applicable. This decision comes after a dispute arose when the CDB initially demanded a rent of Rs 2.20 crore, leading to protests from the Thiruvambady-Paramekkavu Devaswom. Following discussions led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, it was decided not to increase the rent, and the existing amount, last year set at Rs 42 lakh, will be maintained.

The Thiruvambady-Paramekkavu Devaswom had expressed its opposition to the substantial rent increase, prompting the resolution to maintain the current rent. Despite a decision made in a meeting on December 29, where it was agreed not to raise the rent, the government did not communicate this to the court during a hearing on January 4. The official minutes of the meeting, confirming the decision to retain the Rs 42 lakh rent, were compiled on January 17. The order to hand over the land for the Pooram exhibition committee was issued on January 8, but the actual handover occurred on January 25. The allotted space spans 2,64,750 square feet, available from February 15 to June 30, with the Thrissur Pooram scheduled for April 19.