Did Congress Expose the Truth Behind the Sabarimala Gold Scam?
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Synopsis
In a recent development, Kerala's Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan claims that the report from Devaswom Vigilance substantiates allegations of a gold scam and idol sale linked to Sabarimala. With calls for resignations echoing, will accountability be achieved? Discover the unfolding story and its implications for Kerala's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala's opposition claims confirmation of gold scam allegations.
- Devaswom Board faces serious scrutiny and demands for accountability.
- Calls for resignations from key political figures are intensifying.
- Statewide protests planned to push for transparency and justice.
- The future of the Devaswom Board remains uncertain amidst ongoing investigations.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 13 (NationPress) The Kerala Leader of Opposition, V.D. Satheesan, stated on Monday that the findings presented by the Devaswom Vigilance to the Kerala High Court largely validate the claims made by the opposition regarding the Sabarimala gold scandal and the transaction involving the Dwarapalaka idol, which was allegedly sold to a wealthy individual.
Satheesan pointed out that the report indicates that in 2019, gold plates from Sabarimala were illegally dispatched to Chennai, breaching the regulations set forth in the Devaswom manual.
“The items that were sent were mere fake moulds, while the authentic Dwarapalaka idol was sold to a billionaire with full knowledge and support from both the Devaswom Board and the political leadership,” he remarked.
The Devaswom Board is presently under intense examination.
Former Devaswom President A. Padmakumar, who served as a CPI-M MLA, is also implicated. Satheesan accused the political leadership of playing a pivotal role in both the gold theft and the idol sale, asserting that the then-Devaswom Minister, Kadakampally Surendran, was entirely aware of the illicit activities.
“Both the Devaswom Board and the former minister are accountable for their actions,” he emphasized.
The report further reveals that in 2025, the Devaswom Board summoned Unnikrishnan Potti, disregarding orders from the Thiruvabharanam Commissioner. Despite explicit instructions against sending the gold plates to Chennai, the Board president relinquished the keys to the person who ultimately sold the idol.
Satheesan mentioned that the opposition is demanding the resignation of Minister V.N. Vasavan and the disbandment of the Devaswom Board. He was the first to bring to light the matter of the gold plates being sold to a billionaire, leading the opposition in the Assembly last week, where proceedings were adjourned early on all four days due to protests.
With the current Assembly session now concluded, the Congress-led UDF has declared its intention to persist in seeking accountability.
A protest march across the state is scheduled, culminating in a significant convention at Pandalam on October 19.
The party has reiterated its stance that it will not back down until Minister V.N. Vasavan and Devaswom Board President P.S. Prasanth resign.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the Sabarimala gold scam issue with a balanced perspective. The allegations raised by V.D. Satheesan highlight significant concerns regarding governance and accountability within Kerala's political framework. The integrity of the Devaswom Board and its leadership is under scrutiny, and the call for transparency is essential in maintaining public trust.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main allegations in the Sabarimala gold scam?
The main allegations involve the illegal dispatch of gold plates from Sabarimala to Chennai and the sale of the Dwarapalaka idol to a billionaire, with claims that political leaders were complicit.
Who is V.D. Satheesan?
V.D. Satheesan is the Leader of Opposition in Kerala, representing the Congress party and actively voicing concerns regarding governance and accountability.
What actions are being demanded by the opposition?
The opposition is demanding the resignation of Minister V.N. Vasavan and the dissolution of the Devaswom Board in light of the allegations.
When is the statewide protest scheduled?
A statewide protest march is planned, culminating in a major convention at Pandalam on October 19.
What are the implications of this scandal for Kerala politics?
The scandal could significantly impact public trust in governance, leading to potential shifts in political power and accountability measures.
