What’s Happening with the Sabarimala Gold-Plating Scandal?
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Synopsis
On October 14, the Sabarimala gold plate scandal saw new developments with the suspension of Assistant Engineer Sunil Kumar by the Travancore Devaswom Board. The ongoing investigation raises questions about accountability and transparency in managing the shrine's affairs.
Key Takeaways
- Sunil Kumar is suspended amid ongoing investigation.
- Murari Babu was previously suspended for similar reasons.
- A Special Investigation Team is conducting a thorough probe.
- The Board aims for accountability and transparency moving forward.
- Political parties demand action against officials involved.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 14 (NationPress) New developments have emerged in the 2019 Sabarimala gold plate scandal as the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) convened and decided to suspend Sunil Kumar, an Assistant Engineer currently assigned to the shrine. Sunil Kumar is the second official to face suspension, following Murari Babu, who was suspended last week.
The President of the Travancore Devaswom Board, P.S. Prasanth, stated that further actions will be determined after the submission of the final report, aimed at addressing existing irregularities. Prasanth emphasized, ‘A thorough investigation into all Board decisions since 1998 is essential for accountability.’
Murari Babu, the former Administrative Officer, reported that the gold allegedly provided by the now-absconding businessman Vijay Mallya was actually brass-plated. In 2025, he was also involved in transferring a gold plate to ‘sponsor’ Unnikrishnan Potti while acting as the Executive Officer of Sabarimala.
Prasanth clarified that he had not sanctioned such transactions. He insisted, ‘The uncertainties surrounding Sabarimala must be resolved,’ advocating for strict actions against any officials found guilty of misconduct.
Immediate actions will be taken against current officials, while retired officials will face consequences after the final report's release. Prasanth also ordered the seizure of gold provided to Smart Creations from Chennai, which is central to the ongoing investigation. He reiterated that accountability and transparency will guide the Board's future actions.
The Kerala High Court has now established a five-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by ADG of Police H. Venkitesh, tasked with conducting a thorough investigation and submitting a report within six weeks. The SIT has registered two FIRs naming ten individuals as suspects, who will soon be summoned for questioning.
On Tuesday, the SIT visited the Board headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram. This renewed disciplinary action comes amid increasing public scrutiny regarding alleged irregularities and the sluggish response to the gold plate controversy, drawing criticism from devotees and political parties like the Congress and the BJP.
Both political factions have called for the resignation of Devasom Minister V.N. Vasavan and TDB President Prasanth, in addition to demanding an investigation by an independent agency.
Point of View
It is crucial to ensure that the narrative surrounding the Sabarimala gold-plating issue remains factual and unbiased. The recent actions taken by the Travancore Devaswom Board signify an important step toward accountability and transparency, reflecting the public’s demand for integrity in religious institutions.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the suspension of Sunil Kumar?
The suspension of Sunil Kumar is part of the ongoing investigation into the 2019 Sabarimala gold plate controversy, aimed at addressing alleged irregularities.
Who else has been suspended in connection with the scandal?
Murari Babu was the first official suspended prior to Sunil Kumar. He reported that the gold associated with the case was actually brass-plated.
What actions are being taken against other officials?
Current officials will face immediate disciplinary actions, while retired officials will be dealt with after the final report is submitted.
What is the role of the Special Investigation Team?
The Special Investigation Team, appointed by the Kerala High Court, is tasked with conducting a comprehensive investigation into the scandal.
What has the public reaction been to the controversy?
The controversy has drawn significant public scrutiny, with political parties demanding accountability and the resignation of key officials.
