Did Vijayan Know About the Sabarimala Gold Scam?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- K. Surendran alleges Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan knew about the gold heist.
- Calls for a central agency investigation have intensified.
- The ongoing SIT investigation is criticized as a cover-up.
- Political tensions are rising in Kerala over the handling of the case.
- Hindu organizations plan to seek intervention from President Droupadi Murmu.
Pathanamthitta, Oct 20 (NationPress) Former Kerala BJP state president K. Surendran claimed on Monday that the Sabarimala gold heist transpired with the knowledge of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, urging for a thorough investigation by a central agency into the affair.
During a BJP-led protest in Ranni, Surendran criticized the ongoing SIT investigation as a mere facade, alleging that it was designed to protect prominent officials while focusing solely on a select few.
Surendran pointed out that the day prior to the announcement of the SIT inquiry, Chief Minister Vijayan convened an urgent meeting with former Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran.
He suggested that this meeting was a covert strategy to suppress the true details surrounding the gold theft.
“The SIT is only pursuing Unnikrishnan Potti and a handful of officials, while ministers and the Devaswom Board president are being shielded,” stated Surendran.
He challenged whether Pinarayi Vijayan would show the fortitude to request an independent investigation from the central government. Surendran stressed that a central agency probe was crucial to unearth the complete truth and ensure accountability.
The BJP leader's comments emerge amidst increasing public scrutiny regarding the state’s approach to the Sabarimala gold heist, which has ignited widespread discussions across Kerala.
Surendran lambasted the state government for a perceived lack of transparency and alleged that political tactics were influencing the investigation.
He reaffirmed accusations against the Pinarayi administration concerning the management of Sabarimala, arguing that decisions on temple entry deviate from tradition.
The BJP protest in Ranni attracted numerous party leaders and members, reflecting the political and social complexities connected to the issue.
Surendran’s remarks highlight the party’s call for an unbiased, central-level inquiry to clarify one of Kerala’s most significant recent scandals.
In a related development, Hindu organizations are preparing to present a memorandum to President Droupadi Murmu upon her visit to the Sabarimala temple on Wednesday, urging her to ensure the temple’s sanctity is upheld and that justice is served against those responsible.