Is Actor Jayaram the Key Witness in the Sabarimala Gold Theft Case?
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Key Takeaways
Thiruvananthapuram/Chennai, Jan 30 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) currently examining the Sabarimala gold theft incident has interrogated actor Jayaram, a step that officials regard as vital for clarifying the alleged misappropriation of gold plates designated for the hill shrine.
This questioning took place at the actor’s residence in Chennai, after which the SIT suggested that Jayaram is expected to be presented as a significant witness in this case.
During his statement, Jayaram acknowledged that the gold plates intended to stay at the Sannidhanam of the Sabarimala temple were brought to his home in Chennai.
Investigators noted that this supports police findings that the plates were removed from Kerala, reinforcing the prosecution’s assertion that temple assets were transferred without proper authorization.
Nevertheless, the SIT clarified that it currently does not plan to take any legal action against Jayaram.
The investigation has shown that Jayaram had no financial involvement with the main suspect, Unnikrishnan Potti, or any other individuals implicated in the case.
The SIT stated that Jayaram’s connections were mostly limited to faith-based and religious contexts.
Jayaram informed investigators that he had been acquainted with Unnikrishnan Potti for many years through his ongoing visits to Sabarimala, a place he has frequented for nearly five decades.
He added that Potti persuaded him that performing rituals on the newly created gold plates for the Sabarimala sanctum would yield spiritual benefits and prosperity.
Believing Potti’s claims on religious grounds, Jayaram consented to hold the rituals.
The actor also confirmed his participation in ceremonies held on the gold plates at Smart Creations in Chennai, followed by a ceremonial procession at a temple in Kottayam.
He insisted that he was unaware of any financial misconduct or misappropriation concerning the gold plates.
With Jayaram agreeing to testify in court, the SIT views his testimony as crucial, especially to validate the movement and public display of the gold plates outside the temple area.