Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 10 (NationPress) Congress leader V. D. Satheesan expressed his support on Friday for the Kerala High Court's directive to initiate an FIR and conduct a comprehensive investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft incident, referring to it as a “much-needed corrective measure” against efforts by the state government and Devaswom Board to obfuscate the issue.

The Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, Satheesan, emphasized that the court's ruling validates the opposition's persistent assertions and conveys a powerful message that those implicated in the sale of temple assets will be held accountable under the law.

“The High Court uncovered significant discrepancies not only in the Dwarapalaka idol but also in the temple's steps and surrounding structures, observing that counterfeit molds were produced while the original idol was altered. The court has mandated a specialized investigation team to report directly to it, circumventing other authorities, thereby alleviating devotees' concerns over political meddling. Former Devaswom ministers and board presidents have been identified as parties to be investigated,” stated Satheesan.

He also raised concerns regarding procedural errors in the transfer of Ayyappa's yogadanda and Rudraksha mala to the son of the Devaswom Board president for gold-plating. Although the items were fortunately not removed from the temple, he called for transparency regarding the rationale for this decision, highlighting systemic failures in protecting temple assets.

Satheesan stressed that both the government and Devaswom Board were cognizant of the irregularities but allegedly sought to conceal them.

Reports suggest that similar attempts occurred at the Ettumanoor temple, though prompt action by devotees thwarted potential losses.

Official documentation verifies that the Dwarapalaka idol was damaged, and Satheesan urged that all individuals responsible, including those privy to the transactions from 2019, be held accountable.

The Congress party in Kerala has declared its intention to escalate its protests, commencing with a significant demonstration at Pandalam on October 18.

They have also resolved to extend their protests to neighboring states, as a considerable number of devotees hail from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.

The High Court's intervention is being regarded as a pivotal move toward reinstating accountability in the management of Sabarimala temple assets, ensuring justice for devotees and preserving the shrine's sanctity.