What is the latest in the Sabarimala case as ED questions key figure?
Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate has initiated questioning in the Sabarimala gold robbery case, involving former Travancore Devaswom Board officer Murari Babu. This development occurs as the Special Investigation Team prepares to file its charge sheet, potentially widening the scope of the investigation into the alleged gold theft.
Key Takeaways
ED initiates questioning in the Sabarimala gold robbery case.
Murari Babu appears as the first person to be interrogated.
The SIT is preparing to file its charge sheet.
The investigation may widen to include new suspects.
Political and administrative implications are significant.
Kochi, Feb 3 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has commenced its initial round of questioning in the Sabarimala gold robbery case, with former administrative officer of the Travancore Devaswom Board, Murari Babu, appearing at the agency's office in Kochi.
This action by the ED is significant as it coincides with the Special Investigation Team (SIT), appointed by the High Court, preparing to submit its charge sheet regarding the incident.
Murari Babu's questioning is related to the Dwarapalaka and Kattilappally cases tied to the alleged gold theft at the Sabarimala temple.
As the first individual interrogated by the ED since the agency's involvement, he had previously been granted statutory bail due to the SIT's failure to file charge sheets within the designated timeframe for the two cases against him.
Consequently, he became the first suspect in the Sabarimala gold robbery case to secure release on default bail.
Arrested on October 23 of last year, he is listed as the second accused in the Dwarapalaka case and the sixth in the Kattilappally case.
Sources from the ED indicate that the agency has entered the investigation as the SIT's probe approaches completion.
Officials have compiled a list of individuals for questioning, including those not currently implicated by the SIT, which may broaden the investigation's parameters.
This development is anticipated to gain significant attention, as it could expand the scope of the inquiry beyond the existing SIT suspects.
The ED officially registered its case on January 9, invoking the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to explore potential money laundering linked to the alleged theft.
The investigation escalated on January 20, when the agency executed coordinated searches at 21 locations across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
The raids were directed at properties associated with suspects, intermediaries, and business interests believed to be involved in the alleged gold diversion.
The simultaneous investigations suggest that the ED's participation introduces a new dimension to a case that has already stirred political and administrative unrest in Kerala, particularly given the involvement of high-ranking temple administration officials.
Additionally, the High Court is closely monitoring the situation, as it prepares to announce its ruling on a CBI investigation into the theft, requested through a petition by State BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar.
Point of View
My stance remains with the nation, emphasizing the importance of thorough investigations into significant events like the Sabarimala case. It’s crucial that justice prevails and that the truth behind the alleged gold robbery is uncovered, ensuring accountability for all involved.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold robbery case about?
The Sabarimala gold robbery case involves the alleged theft of gold from the Sabarimala temple, leading to investigations by multiple agencies, including the ED and SIT.
What actions have been taken by the ED?
The ED has begun questioning individuals linked to the case and has executed searches at several locations to gather evidence related to the alleged gold theft.
What is the role of the Special Investigation Team?
The Special Investigation Team is tasked with investigating the Sabarimala gold robbery and is preparing to file a charge sheet in the case.
Why is this case significant?
The Sabarimala case is significant due to its implications for political and administrative accountability, especially involving senior temple officials.
