Why is CM Vijayan Silent on the Sabarimala Gold Heist?
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Synopsis
As the Sabarimala gold heist investigation intensifies, CM Pinarayi Vijayan's silence raises eyebrows. Why is he avoiding the media? With key allies facing serious charges, the political stakes are high. Will this silence prove strategic or risky for the Chief Minister?
Key Takeaways
- Pinarayi Vijayan's silence on the Sabarimala gold heist raises questions.
- Two former TDB Presidents are now imprisoned.
- The investigation may impact the upcoming local body elections.
- Political observers are closely monitoring the situation.
- Vijayan's media strategy has been notably non-engaged since 2016.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 25 (NationPress) As the political climate in Kerala heats up regarding the Sabarimala gold heist investigation, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's conspicuous silence has sparked significant debate across the state.
With two of his long-time allies — former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) Presidents A. Padmakumar and N. Vasu — now incarcerated following arrests by the High Court-mandated Special Investigation Team, the Chief Minister has opted for a practiced non-engagement, avoiding media interactions and declining to provide any clarifications.
Padmakumar, a former legislator and once a staunch supporter of Vijayan, was Board President when the gold-plated adornments at the revered Sabarimala temple were reportedly removed for re-plating, allegedly breaching established protocols.
N. Vasu, also a former CPI(M) leader and two-time Commissioner of the Board, faces allegations of criminal misconduct and betrayal of trust.
Both individuals were known to be close to Vijayan and had defended him during turbulent periods of intra-party strife.
On Tuesday, Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan directly accused Vijayan and CPI-M state Secretary M.V. Govindan of providing protection to the accused.
"Padmakumar was unwaveringly supportive of Vijayan during his conflict with V.S. Achuthanandan. Some are hesitant to act due to concerns about the implications of the investigation," the Congress leader asserted.
Political analysts note that Vijayan’s refusal to comment, even as the probe delves deeper, aligns with his media strategy since taking office in 2016.
Shortly after becoming Chief Minister, he abolished the weekly cabinet media briefing and has since only addressed the press during events such as government awards, electoral victories, or personal vindications.
In contrast to his predecessors, he is known to react negatively when approached by the media during informal encounters.
As the SIT broadens its investigation and public scrutiny intensifies, Vijayan’s silence, once regarded as a tactical decision, is increasingly viewed as a political liability.
With the gold heist case inching closer to the party’s core, Kerala is keenly observing whether silence can continue to act as a protective barrier, especially with local body elections scheduled in two weeks.
Point of View
It's crucial to observe that while CM Pinarayi Vijayan's silence might be interpreted as a strategy to manage the situation, it also poses a risk to his political standing, especially with upcoming elections. The developments in the Sabarimala gold heist case highlight the complexities of political loyalty and accountability in governance.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold heist?
The Sabarimala gold heist refers to the alleged theft and improper handling of gold items belonging to the Sabarimala temple, leading to a significant investigation.
Who are the key figures involved?
Key figures include CM Pinarayi Vijayan, former TDB Presidents A. Padmakumar and N. Vasu, who are currently under investigation.
Why is CM Vijayan silent on the issue?
Vijayan's silence has raised questions, with many speculating that it is a strategic decision amidst ongoing investigations and political pressures.
How has the opposition reacted?
The opposition, led by V.D. Satheesan, has accused Vijayan of shielding the accused, putting additional pressure on his administration.
What are the potential political implications?
Vijayan's silence could be a double-edged sword, potentially alienating voters as the investigation unfolds and local elections approach.
