BJP Claims Gold Theft Allegations at Sabarimala Are a Cover-Up Post Tantri's Arrest
Synopsis
In a bold statement, Kerala BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar accuses the CPI(M)-led government of orchestrating a diversion in the Sabarimala gold theft case following the arrest of Tantri Kantararu Rajeevaru. He questions the motives behind the arrest and highlights the lack of evidence.
Key Takeaways
Rajeev Chandrasekhar accuses CPI(M) of distraction tactics in the Sabarimala gold theft case.
The Tantri, Kantararu Rajeevaru, claims no evidence justified his arrest.
4.5 kg of gold was reportedly stolen, raising security concerns.
Chandrasekhar demands accountability from ministers responsible for temple security.
The BJP pledges to protect devotees against political exploitation.
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 25 (NationPress) The president of the Kerala BJP, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, on Wednesday accused the CPI(M)-led administration of executing a calculated diversion concerning the alleged gold theft at Sabarimala, following his visit to the shrine's Tantri, Kantararu Rajeevaru, who is currently hospitalized.
Rajeevaru, released on bail last week after spending 40 days in custody related to this case, was admitted to the hospital recently.
Chandrasekhar stated that he visited the Tantri out of duty after hearing about his health.
"I am not condoning the situation at Sabarimala, nor is it my role to comment on the ongoing investigation. However, to arrest someone like him based on a remand note that provided no evidence against him is extremely concerning," the BJP leader informed reporters.
Pointing to the court's remarks during the bail hearing, Chandrasekhar asserted there was not a shred of evidence against the Tantri.
He questioned why Rajeevaru was arrested initially without any substantial evidence.
Chandrasekhar accused the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of acting on the directives of the Chief Minister, who also holds the Home Minister position, claiming they aimed to deflect attention from Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan and former Minister Kadakampally Surendran.
He emphasized that the ministers were facing increasing scrutiny over alleged failures that allowed broker and primary suspect Unnikrishnan Potti to access the temple freely, resulting in the theft of 4.5 kg of gold.
"Why have no charges been brought against those who are constitutionally responsible for safeguarding Kerala’s temples? Why are they not incarcerated?" he queried, labeling the Tantri's arrest as a strategic maneuver to redirect focus.
He further condemned remarks made against the Tantri in the Assembly, labeling it unjust to target someone who cannot defend himself in that setting.
Affirming that Kerala embodies values, heritage, and faith, Chandrasekhar stated that the BJP and NDA would "stand firm in protecting devotees" against any attempts to intimidate or exploit their beliefs.
Point of View
The allegations made by Rajeev Chandrasekhar highlight a critical intersection of politics and religion in Kerala. The arrest of a prominent temple figure raises questions about the integrity of the investigation and the potential for political maneuvering in sensitive matters related to faith.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Sabarimala gold theft case?
The Sabarimala gold theft case involves the alleged theft of 4.5 kg of gold from the temple, which has raised concerns about security and accountability among those responsible for protecting religious sites.
Who is Kantararu Rajeevaru?
Kantararu Rajeevaru is the Tantri (chief priest) of the Sabarimala temple, who was recently arrested in connection with the gold theft case but has since been released on bail.
What are the accusations made by Rajeev Chandrasekhar?
Rajeev Chandrasekhar has accused the CPI(M)-led government of orchestrating a diversion to deflect attention from key ministers amid the investigation into the gold theft.
Why was Rajeevaru arrested?
Rajeevaru was arrested based on a remand note but faced criticism for the lack of substantial evidence against him, which has raised questions about the motives behind his detention.
What implications do these allegations have for Kerala's political landscape?
These allegations could impact the political dynamics in Kerala, particularly how the public perceives the CPI(M) government and its handling of sensitive issues related to faith and security.
