Overview
- The Coast Guard Chetak helicopter that flew low near the Sabarimala temple Thursday afternoon is now under a police case and a formal inquiry.
- Police filed an FIR under Section 118(e) of the Kerala Police Act, citing four low passes over the notified Special Security Zone without permission and naming no accused.
- ADGP S Sreejith submitted a preliminary report to the Special Commissioner on Friday night that urges a detailed probe and tasks the Pathanamthitta district police chief with the investigation.
- The Indian Coast Guard said deteriorating weather and high clouds forced a deviation over the Pamba hills, and the aircraft returned safely to Kochi, while the temple board noted the crew had flagged a technical issue at take-off.
- Video shot by temple staff showed the chopper flying close to the flagmast, raising safety concerns for devotees and buildings, and the Special Commissioner is expected to brief the Kerala High Court next.