What Did the Kerala HC Order in the Sabarimala Gold Theft Case?
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Synopsis
The Kerala High Court's recent decision to allow a scientific investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft case has raised eyebrows. As the Special Investigation Team delves deeper, allegations of corruption and misappropriation come to light, potentially implicating high-profile officials and reshaping the future of the temple's administration.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala High Court allows SIT to investigate gold theft.
- Concerns raised over TDB officials misconduct.
- Investigation aims to ensure accountability and transparency.
- Potential implications for temple management and governance.
- Key figures, including contractor Unnikrishnan Potti, are under scrutiny.
Kochi, Nov 5 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court has granted the Special Investigation Team (SIT) permission to perform a scientific investigation into the alleged irregularities concerning gold plating at the Sabarimala temple.
The court has authorized the SIT to gather gold samples from multiple locations to ascertain the precise amount of gold that was “lost or misappropriated” during renovation activities.
Additionally, the examination of the newly-installed sanctum sanctorum (Sreekovil) door has been approved amid suspicions of significant fraud during its replacement.
This directive was issued following the SIT's recent progress report presented to the High Court. During the proceedings, the court noted serious allegations against contractor Unnikrishnan Potti, who appeared to have been granted undue leeway by officials of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) while overseeing the gold-plating initiative.
The bench highlighted that several officials allegedly aided Potti in various dealings, raising serious concerns regarding oversight and accountability within the Board.
The court emphasized, “The investigation must encompass everyone involved in the gold theft, whether directly or indirectly,” asserting that the TDB's primary responsibility is to protect the deity's assets.
Notably, the High Court also directed the SIT to explore whether TDB officials could be subjected to the Prevention of Corruption Act, thus broadening the investigation's scope.
The allegations pertain to the gold plating of the temple's sanctum doors and other structures as part of renovation efforts.
The controversy surfaced when the amount of gold utilized reportedly did not align with official records, triggering suspicions of extensive misappropriation.
The inquiry, spearheaded by Additional Director General of Police H. Venkitesh, has thus far led to the arrests of three individuals: Potti, current TDB official Murari Babu, and former official Sudheesh Kumar.
On Monday, the SIT interrogated former TDB president and two-term commissioner N. Vasu, who is known to be a CPI(M) sympathizer and a close associate of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
With the Congress party demanding the resignation of Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan and raising concerns about former minister and CPI(M) MLA Kadakampally Surendran, the ruling party is currently facing scrutiny.
The upcoming days are anticipated to be pivotal, as the SIT may summon additional CPI(M)-related leaders, including former TDB presidents A. Padmakumar and Ananthagopan, as well as the current chief P. S. Prasanth.
Point of View
It is crucial for the investigation to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability. The High Court's directive to involve the Special Investigation Team reflects a commitment to ensuring justice and restoring faith in the temple's management and governance. Upholding the integrity of the Travancore Devaswom Board is imperative, and all involved parties must be held accountable to maintain public trust.
NationPress
28/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold theft case about?
The Sabarimala gold theft case involves allegations of misappropriation and irregularities in gold plating at the Sabarimala temple during recent renovations.
Who is leading the investigation?
The investigation is being led by Additional Director General of Police H. Venkitesh, under the Special Investigation Team (SIT).
What did the Kerala High Court order?
The Kerala High Court ordered a scientific examination by the SIT and allowed them to collect gold samples and investigate the involvement of TDB officials.
What are the allegations against contractor Unnikrishnan Potti?
Contractor Unnikrishnan Potti is accused of being granted excessive autonomy by TDB officials, leading to serious allegations of misconduct in the gold-plating project.
What could be the implications of this investigation?
The investigation could lead to significant political fallout, potential legal actions against TDB officials, and a reevaluation of governance within the temple administration.
