What Did the SIT Discover in the Parakamani Theft Case?
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Synopsis
The SIT has made significant progress in the Parakamani theft case, shedding light on the events surrounding the theft at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple. As the Andhra Pradesh High Court prepares for further hearings, the implications of the investigation could impact the temple's administration and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- SIT submitted report regarding the Parakamani theft case.
- Investigation initiated following High Court orders.
- Ravi Kumar was caught stealing in April 2023.
- Compromise reached in Lok Adalat with properties donated to TTD.
- High Court to conduct further hearings.
Amaravati, Dec 2 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT), tasked with investigating the Parakamani theft case at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirumala, presented its findings to the Andhra Pradesh High Court on Tuesday.
Led by Additional Director General of the Crime Investigation Department (CID), Ravi Shankar Ayyanar, the report was submitted under seal.
The High Court is scheduled to hold a subsequent hearing regarding this matter on Friday.
The CID initiated the investigation following court orders related to a petition contesting the closure of the Parakamani theft case in the Lok Adalat.
In April 2023, Ravi Kumar, an employee of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), was apprehended for stealing $920 from the Parakamani (the counting center for coins and currency notes).
The case, initially filed at the Tirumala police station, was later transferred to the Lok Adalat, where a compromise settlement was achieved in September 2023. Ravi Kumar agreed to donate seven properties valued at Rs 40 crore, located in Tirupati and Chennai, to the TTD.
A petition was lodged with the Andhra Pradesh High Court, claiming there was insufficient investigation into the theft case, as the previous governing board of the TTD had closed the case after a Lok Adalat settlement. Petitioner Macherla Sreenivas demanded further investigation into the case's closure.
The SIT, which commenced its investigation in October, interrogated former TTD Chairpersons B. Karunakar Reddy and Y.V. Subba Reddy, as well as former TTD Executive Officer Dharma Reddy and various other TTD and police officials.
Former TTD Chairman and YSRCP Parliamentary Party leader Y.V. Subba Reddy testified before the SIT on November 28. He held the position during the time Ravi Kumar donated seven properties to the temple post-settlement in the Lok Adalat.
Former TTD Chairman and ex-MLA Karunakar Reddy had also appeared before the SIT on November 25, as he was in charge when the theft case was registered.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of transparency and accountability in such high-stakes investigations. The Parakamani theft case highlights the need for rigorous oversight within temple administrations to ensure trust among devotees and stakeholders.
NationPress
02/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Parakamani theft case?
The Parakamani theft case involves the theft of $920 from the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple's counting center, leading to an investigation by the Special Investigation Team.
Who is Ravi Kumar?
Ravi Kumar is a TTD employee who was caught stealing from the Parakamani in April 2023.
What was the outcome of the Lok Adalat settlement?
Ravi Kumar agreed to donate seven properties worth Rs 40 crore to the TTD as part of the Lok Adalat settlement.
What is the role of the SIT?
The Special Investigation Team is investigating the circumstances surrounding the Parakamani theft and the subsequent closure of the case.
When will the next hearing occur?
The next hearing regarding the case is scheduled for Friday.
