Is the Government Shielding the Accused in the Sabarimala Gold Case?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events, KPCC president Sunny Joseph accuses the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government of shielding those involved in the Sabarimala gold plating scandal. With the TDB's term extension on the table, will justice be served or will the accused escape scrutiny? This article delves into the latest developments and the political implications surrounding the case.
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of shielding the accused in the Sabarimala gold case have emerged.
- The Kerala High Court has granted permission for a scientific examination by the SIT.
- The current TDB's term is nearing an end, raising speculation about extensions.
- Sunny Joseph demands accountability and a decisive investigation.
- The case highlights the importance of judicial oversight in political matters.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 5 (NationPress) The president of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) and MLA, Sunny Joseph, has on Wednesday charged the Pinarayi Vijayan-led state administration with an effort to protect those implicated in the Sabarimala gold plating controversy by prolonging the term of the current Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB).
This accusation emerged shortly after the Kerala High Court authorized the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to perform a scientific examination as part of its inquiry into the suspected gold plating discrepancies at the Sabarimala temple.
On the other hand, the state BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar announced on Wednesday that they would approach Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar to urge him not to approve the extension of the current TDB.
A term for the TDB lasts three years, after which the state government either appoints a new team or extends the term of the sitting board. The tenure of the existing three-member TDB is nearing its end, and there is widespread speculation that the Vijayan government intends to extend their term.
Joseph claimed that the government's purported decision to extend the current Devaswom Board's term is a calculated attempt to safeguard those implicated in the scandal, including board members and political figures.
He stated, “The decision to prolong the board's term is not rooted in administrative convenience but in protecting the accused,” emphasizing that the government had created a window for the potential destruction of crucial evidence.
Joseph criticized the sluggish progress of the investigation, highlighting that a month has elapsed since the High Court's stringent remarks, yet “there has been no effective questioning, no recovery of the lost gold, and the investigation seems virtually stalled.”
He warned that without the High Court's ongoing oversight, the case could be quietly dismissed.
Notably, the current TDB president, P.S. Prasanth, is a former Congress leader from Thiruvananthapuram who shifted allegiance to the CPI-M after losing the 2021 Assembly election as a Congress candidate. Following his defection, he was appointed to the prestigious role of TDB president.
The KPCC leader insisted that the government must disband the existing board and ensure accountability for all wrongdoers. “What we need is a decisive investigation, not a cover-up,” he asserted.
Point of View
The allegations surrounding the Sabarimala gold case highlight the complexities of political maneuvering and accountability. The integrity of the investigation process must be upheld, ensuring that no individual is above the law. The public deserves transparency and justice, and it is crucial that the judicial system remains vigilant in overseeing such high-profile cases.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold plating case?
The Sabarimala gold plating case involves allegations of irregularities related to the gold plating of the Sabarimala temple, raising concerns about corruption and mismanagement.
Who is Sunny Joseph?
Sunny Joseph is the President of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee and an MLA, known for his vocal criticism of the state government.
What is the role of the Travancore Devaswom Board?
The Travancore Devaswom Board manages Hindu temples in Kerala, including the Sabarimala temple, overseeing daily operations and financial matters.
What does term extension of the TDB mean?
Term extension of the TDB allows the current board to remain in power beyond its usual three-year term, which has raised concerns about accountability.
What is the significance of the Kerala High Court's involvement?
The Kerala High Court's involvement is crucial for ensuring a fair investigation and oversight of the ongoing inquiries into the Sabarimala gold case.
