Will the Kerala HC Uphold Justice in the Sabarimala Theft Case?
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Key Takeaways
Kochi, Feb 4 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court has strongly endorsed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) conducting the inquiry into the notorious Sabarimala gold theft case, claiming that the investigation is moving in the correct direction and ensuring that no accused individuals will evade justice.
The High Court was instrumental in initiating the SIT investigation and selected the team responsible for carrying out this inquiry.
In its significant observations, the court emphasized that the entire investigation is under its careful supervision and requested petitioners advocating for a CBI inquiry to allow the SIT additional time.
This hearing involved petitions filed by BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar and various organizations, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, which sought a transfer of the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation due to the serious nature of the allegations and the broader implications of the case.
The High Court dismissed concerns from the petitioners, clarifying that the issuance of statutory bail to accused individuals would not hinder the investigation.
Labeling the Sabarimala gold smuggling case as "extraordinary" and "highly complex," the court noted that the SIT is handling numerous layers of transactions and individuals, necessitating careful examination.
Judges reiterated that statutory bail granted after the mandatory 90-day period does not inherently weaken the prosecution or allow the accused to escape accountability.
"No accused will be permitted to evade justice," the court assured emphatically.
To date, among the 13 individuals arrested, three have been granted bail, with others likely to appeal for bail as well.
The High Court further observed that every procedural and substantive detail of the investigation is being meticulously monitored by the court, thus eliminating any possibility of laxity or external influence.
Stressing the necessity for judicial patience in cases of this magnitude, the bench reiterated that adequate time should be afforded to investigators to fully uncover the extent of the alleged crime.
This firm endorsement of the SIT by the court is perceived as a significant morale boost for the investigative agency, especially amidst growing political pressure and intense protests within the State Assembly by the Opposition, who have questioned the credibility and speed of the probe.