Who is K.S. Byju? Fourth Arrest in Sabarimala Gold Theft Case
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Synopsis
The Sabarimala gold theft case is escalating with the arrest of K.S. Byju, a pivotal figure in the investigation. As the fourth arrest, his involvement raises serious questions about procedural safeguards and accountability at the Travancore Devaswom Board. This case continues to attract significant public scrutiny and political attention.
Key Takeaways
- K.S. Byju arrested as fourth suspect in gold theft.
- Investigators seek joint interrogation to clarify events.
- Concerns over oversight and accountability at TDB.
- Ongoing public interest and political scrutiny.
- Case highlights need for transparency in temple management.
Kochi, Nov 6 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the Sabarimala gold plating theft case has made another significant breakthrough with the arrest of K.S. Byju, a former official of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), on Thursday night. This marks the fourth arrest in this ongoing investigation.
This arrest is pivotal in unraveling the mystery surrounding the disappearance of gold used to plate components of the Sabarimala temple back in 2019.
Byju, identified as the seventh accused, held the position of custodian for the gold plates that were sent to Smart Creations, a private firm in Chennai, for re-plating.
It has come to light that he was on leave at the time the gold plates were transported from the temple to Chennai, raising serious questions about the oversight and procedural safeguards in place during that critical period.
His arrest follows a directive from the Kerala High Court for further investigation after reviewing the SIT’s second-stage report.
The court emphasized the necessity for the probe to determine clear accountability and highlight any official negligence in the management of temple gold.
Sources suggest that the SIT plans to approach the Ranni Magistrate Court on Friday to obtain custody of two accused currently in judicial remand, facilitating a joint interrogation with Byju.
Among those already detained are the main accused, Unnikrishnan Potti, a serving TDB employee Murari Babu, and former TDB staff member Sudheesh Kumar.
Investigators believe that questioning Byju alongside Babu and Kumar could clarify the sequence of events leading to the gold's disappearance during the re-plating process.
The SIT suspects that genuine gold sheets covering parts of the sanctum were swapped with inferior materials, allegedly siphoned off during transit or re-plating.
Byju's role as custodian of the temple’s assets and his absence on the day of the gold transfer are now focal points of the investigation.
The SIT is probing whether his actions indicate wilful negligence or complicity in the alleged theft.
The case has sparked significant public concern, prompting judicial oversight, while both the Congress and BJP have called for an inquiry by a central agency.
Point of View
We recognize the gravity of the ongoing investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft. The recent arrest of K.S. Byju emphasizes the need for thorough scrutiny of procedural safeguards in place at the Travancore Devaswom Board. This incident not only highlights concerns regarding accountability but also reflects the broader implications of governance and transparency in sacred institutions. We stand firm in advocating for justice and clarity in this matter.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is K.S. Byju?
K.S. Byju is a former employee of the Travancore Devaswom Board, recently arrested in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case.
What is the significance of the fourth arrest?
The fourth arrest in the Sabarimala gold theft case signals ongoing developments in the investigation, raising questions about oversight and procedural safeguards.
What role did Byju play in the gold theft?
Byju was the custodian of the gold plates sent for re-plating and was absent at the time of their transfer, which has raised suspicions.
What are the next steps in the investigation?
The SIT plans to seek custody of two other accused for joint interrogation with Byju to establish a clearer timeline of events.
What has been the public response to this case?
The case has generated significant public concern and prompted calls for a central agency investigation from political parties.
