Did BJP leaders urge Kerala Guv for an external probe into the Sabarimala gold heist?
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Synopsis
BJP leaders in Kerala have raised serious concerns regarding the Sabarimala gold plating scam, demanding an independent investigation from the Governor. This controversy, linked to alleged mismanagement and corruption, has sparked significant protests and political discourse ahead of the temple's festival season.
Key Takeaways
- BJP calls for independent investigation
- Protests highlight political tensions
- Gold plates scandal raises governance concerns
- Devaswom Vigilance findings are critical
- Impacts on upcoming festival season
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 13 (NationPress) On Monday, BJP leaders met with Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar to discuss the Sabarimala gold plating scam, insisting on an inquiry by an external agency. Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the president of the Kerala BJP unit, addressed the media outside Raj Bhavan, stating, "With Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also serving as the Home Minister, the current SIT’s investigation involves Kerala Police officials. We have presented the complete situation to the Governor and emphasized the necessity for an unbiased investigation."
Chandrasekhar was joined by former BJP president Kummanam Rajasekharan, Union Minister V. Muraleedharan, and various senior leaders from the state.
Previously, the BJP's youth wing organized a two-hour protest outside the state secretariat, demanding the resignation of State Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan and the Devaswom Board.
The demonstration attracted a significant turnout, including many young women, and resulted in confrontations with police, who resorted to water cannons, leaving numerous activists injured.
The push for an independent probe follows the Devaswom Vigilance presenting a report to the Kerala High Court, confirming opposition claims about the Sabarimala gold heist and the sale of the Dwarapalaka plates to a billionaire.
The report indicates that in 2019, gold plates from Sabarimala were dispatched to Chennai against the Devaswom manual.
The dispatched items were counterfeit molds, while the authentic Dwarapalaka plates were sold with both the Devaswom Board and the political leadership's knowledge and support.
Further findings reveal that in 2025, the Devaswom Board disregarded directives from the Thiruvabharanam Commissioner and entrusted keys to the individual who ultimately sold the plates.
Former Devaswom President A. Padmakumar, a CPI-M legislator at that time, and the political leadership are believed to have been involved.
The Sabarimala Temple ranks among the largest revenue sources for the Devasom Board, and this controversy emerges just before the two-month-long festival season begins in the third week of November.
Point of View
It is essential to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. The allegations surrounding the Sabarimala gold heist raise critical questions about governance and transparency, especially in a region where religious and political intertwine. While the BJP's call for an independent investigation reflects their commitment to accountability, it's equally important to consider the implications for the local administration and the upcoming festival season.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold heist?
The Sabarimala gold heist refers to the alleged misappropriation and illegal sale of gold plates belonging to the Sabarimala Temple, raising concerns over governance and accountability.
Why are BJP leaders demanding an external probe?
BJP leaders are advocating for an external investigation to ensure impartiality and transparency, given that the current SIT involves Kerala Police officials under the Home Minister's jurisdiction.
What sparked the protests by the BJP youth wing?
The protests were triggered by demands for the resignation of State Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan and accountability from the Devaswom Board regarding the gold heist allegations.
What findings were reported by the Devaswom Vigilance?
The Devaswom Vigilance reported that gold plates were illegally sent to Chennai and that counterfeit items were involved in the scandal, implicating both political and Devaswom Board leadership.
How does this controversy affect the Sabarimala Temple?
The controversy threatens to overshadow the temple's significant revenue generation, especially with the upcoming festival season, which is vital for the local economy.
