Should CPI(M) Remove Jailed Padmakumar from Membership in Sabarimala Gold Theft Case?
Synopsis
In the wake of serious allegations against former MLA A. Padmakumar regarding the Sabarimala gold theft case, Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala is pushing CPI(M) for immediate expulsion. This call raises significant questions about political accountability and religious sentiments in Kerala.
Key Takeaways
Ramesh Chennithala calls for CPI(M) to act against Padmakumar.
Padmakumar is in judicial custody related to the Sabarimala gold theft .
Court findings link him to a criminal conspiracy.
Chennithala highlights the need for accountability.
Public sentiment regarding religious values is crucial.
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 31 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader and member of the Working Committee, Ramesh Chennithala, has urged the CPI(M) to take immediate action against former MLA A. Padmakumar, who is currently under judicial custody related to the Sabarimala gold theft case.
In an open letter addressed to M.A. Baby, the national general secretary of CPI(M), Chennithala expressed serious concerns regarding Padmakumar's ongoing membership, especially in light of court findings connecting him to an alleged conspiracy.
Padmakumar, a veteran member of the CPI(M) Pathanamthitta district committee and a former MLA, was apprehended on November 20, 2025, by the Special Investigation Team investigating the Sabarimala temple gold theft.
He stands as the eighth accused in this case and has been in custody for over two months, with his bail pleas consistently rejected by the courts.
Chennithala dismissed CPI(M)'s rationale for refraining from disciplinary measures, citing that the charges against Padmakumar were ambiguous. He referred to a January 2026 ruling from the Kollam Vigilance Court that denied Padmakumar anticipatory bail, outlining his purported involvement in the crime. He highlighted that the Travancore Devaswom Manual firmly prohibits sacred temple ornaments from being removed from temple grounds.
The court noted that the decision to transfer the sacred ornaments of Lord Ayyappa to a private entity was made at a Devaswom Board meeting on July 5, 2019, presided over by Padmakumar, indicating prima facie involvement in a criminal conspiracy.
Furthermore, the court indicated that the ornaments had been deceitfully labeled as copper sheets to facilitate their removal, blatantly violating established regulations.
Chennithala pointed out that despite these clear judicial findings, the CPI(M) has failed to take action, leading to confusion and concern among the people of Kerala.
He also mentioned allegations that under Padmakumar's leadership, the CPI(M) amassed Rs 10 crore during the last Lok Sabha elections, suggesting the party is apprehensive about revealing details if disciplinary measures are taken.
Chennithala emphasized that this allegation appears credible given the circumstances and urged the CPI(M) leadership to honor the religious sentiments of millions of devotees by expelling Padmakumar without delay.
Point of View
This situation exemplifies the critical intersection of politics, religion, and justice. The demand for accountability within political parties, particularly in cases involving serious allegations, is vital for maintaining public trust. It reflects a broader need for transparency, especially in matters that resonate deeply with the citizens' faith and values.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ramesh Chennithala?
Ramesh Chennithala is a senior Congress leader and member of the Congress Working Committee in India.
What is the Sabarimala gold theft case?
The Sabarimala gold theft case involves the alleged theft of sacred ornaments from the Sabarimala temple, leading to multiple arrests, including that of former MLA A. Padmakumar.
Why is Padmakumar's membership in CPI(M) being questioned?
Padmakumar's membership is under scrutiny due to his alleged involvement in the gold theft case and judicial findings linking him to a conspiracy.
What actions has Chennithala requested from CPI(M)?
Chennithala has urged the CPI(M) to expel A. Padmakumar to uphold accountability and respect the sentiments of devotees.
What are the implications of this case for Kerala politics?
This case could significantly impact public trust in political parties and raise questions about accountability, particularly in sensitive matters involving religion.
