Is the Sabarimala Gold Scam Leading to Political Turmoil in Kerala?
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Synopsis
On October 16, Kerala BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar accused the Travancore Devaswom Board of corruption linked to the Sabarimala gold scam. He demanded the resignation of Minister V.N. Vasavan and a central probe, igniting a significant protest. This is a pivotal moment in Kerala's political landscape, challenging the state's governance and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Rajeev Chandrasekhar demands accountability for the Sabarimala gold scam.
- Calls for the resignation of V.N. Vasavan and disbanding of the TDB.
- The protest underscores growing political tension in Kerala.
- Central investigation sought to ensure transparency.
- The BJP Mahila Morcha leads the charge in defending temple traditions.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 16 (NationPress) Kerala Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Rajeev Chandrasekhar has leveled serious accusations against the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), describing it as having "degenerated into a broker's establishment." He has called for the immediate dissolution of the TDB, the resignation of State Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan, and an investigation by a central agency into the ongoing Sabarimala temple gold scam.
This statement came during a significant protest organized by the BJP's women's wing in front of the State Secretariat.
Chandrasekhar emphasized, "The theft of 4.5 kg of gold from Sabarimala is not just a minor oversight but a substantial act of corruption and looting under the Kerala government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. We will urge the Union government to transfer the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation or the Enforcement Directorate."
State BJP General Secretary Sobha Surendran asserted that the BJP Mahila Morcha intends to engage in a prolonged struggle against the alleged "Sabarimala looting" perpetrated by the state authorities.
"While Congress leaders were busy debating on television about violations of rituals at Sabarimala Temple, BJP activists took to the streets to uphold the temple's traditions," Surendran remarked.
Moreover, State BJP Mahila Morcha President Navya Haridas mentioned that the current protest represents a continuation of the fight initiated years ago to safeguard the temple's customs.
Numerous women who previously faced police action for chanting prayers during prior protests participated in this demonstration as well.
Haridas criticized the state government's "Ayyappa Sangamam" as merely a "global empty gathering" and accused them of significant misappropriation of the funds collected in the name of Sabarimala.
During the BJP women's wing protest against Unnikrishna Potti, the principal suspect in the two FIRs filed by the Special Investigation Team of Kerala Police regarding the gold theft, Potti was apprehended at his residence in Thiruvananthapuram.
His lawyer Sasthamangalam Ajith stated that they currently do not know Potti's whereabouts. "I had informed the SIT Chief Ravada A. Chandrasekhar that if they needed to interrogate my client, he would comply. The SIT Chief indicated he would keep me informed. However, as of now, no one knows where Potti is. We are waiting to see if he will be presented before any court," Ajith added.
Point of View
I believe that the allegations surrounding the Sabarimala gold scam reflect a broader concern regarding transparency and accountability in governance. The demand for a central investigation is crucial, as it could restore public trust in institutions. It is essential to ensure that all parties involved are held accountable, reinforcing the democratic principles that our nation upholds.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold scam?
The Sabarimala gold scam involves the alleged theft of 4.5 kg of gold from the Sabarimala temple, with accusations of corruption against state authorities.
Who is Rajeev Chandrasekhar?
Rajeev Chandrasekhar is the President of the Kerala Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a prominent political figure in the state.
What are the demands made by the BJP?
The BJP is demanding the resignation of State Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan, the disbanding of the Travancore Devaswom Board, and a central investigation into the gold scam.
Why is the protest significant?
The protest marks a crucial moment in Kerala's political landscape, raising serious questions about governance and accountability.
What role does the Central Bureau of Investigation play?
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is being requested to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations surrounding the Sabarimala gold scam.
