Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 5 (NationPress) The Sabarimala gold theft case remains a focal point of Kerala’s political landscape as the primary accused, Unnikrishnan Potti, was released from jail after obtaining statutory bail. This development has sparked significant uproar in the State Assembly for the fourth day in a row.

The Assembly has been temporarily adjourned and is scheduled to resume on February 23.

Potti, identified as the first accused in the charges filed by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), is one of 13 individuals implicated in two cases related to the alleged gold theft.

His release marks him as the fourth accused to achieve bail in this matter.

The Opposition has consistently accused the government of protecting powerful individuals and diluting the investigation.

Members of the Congress-led Opposition disrupted Assembly proceedings, chanting slogans while demanding a thorough and unbiased investigation, claiming the case has broader implications and potential political connections.

In contrast, members of the treasury benches defended their position, referencing the Kerala High Court's remarks from Wednesday.

The court emphasized that the provision of bail should not be misconstrued as an indication of innocence, asserting that those who have committed offenses will face legal consequences.

Legislators from the treasury benches reiterated that the SIT investigation is progressing in strict adherence to legal norms and will persist regardless of any accused receiving bail.

They accused the Opposition of intentionally fostering public misunderstanding by conflating bail with innocence.

“It is evident that the Opposition is reluctant to discuss this matter openly in the Assembly, even as the government is prepared to engage,” remarked Speaker A.N. Shamseer.

Despite repeated assurances from the government, the Opposition maintained that the handling of the case has diminished public trust.

Senior legislator Ramesh Chennithala of the CWC commented on the day's developments, expressing that with Potti's release, their concerns have materialized, suggesting that the government is actively obstructing the case.

“We will persist in our protests regarding the government’s approach to this case. With Potti’s release, it is likely that others currently imprisoned will soon follow suit,” Chennithala stated.

With Potti now released, it remains to be seen whether the Enforcement Directorate will summon him for questioning as their investigation also progresses.

The Sabarimala gold theft case, which involves accusations of the unlawful removal and misappropriation of gold associated with temple offerings, has become a significant point of contention ahead of upcoming political contests in the State, with both sides adopting more rigid positions as legal proceedings unfold.