A sudden bandh called by right wing groups took parts of Kerala by surprise, particularly inconveniencing pilgrims in Sabarimala, who were unable to buy even essentials like water. There was also sporadic violence. The provocation seemed to be the arrest of a right-wing leader KP Sasikala. Late in the evening, the BJP general secretary in the state was also picked up by the police. Another day that made it all too apparent what a pitched political battle Sabarimala has become.
