Will Kerala HC's Extension Impact the Sabarimala Gold Plating Case Investigation?
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Synopsis
In a significant legal development, the Kerala High Court has provided the SIT with a one-month extension to complete its investigation into the Sabarimala gold-plating case. With the ED's impending involvement and new arrests on the horizon, the case is poised for major shifts.
Key Takeaways
- The Kerala High Court has extended the SIT's investigation period by one month.
- The ED is expected to intervene soon, increasing the case's scope.
- Further arrests are anticipated as the investigation progresses.
- N. Vasu's bail plea has been denied, keeping him in custody.
- Political scrutiny surrounding the case is intensifying.
Kochi, Dec 3 (NationPress) - The Kerala High Court has granted the Special Investigation Team (SIT) a one-month extension to wrap up its investigation into the Sabarimala gold-plating case.
This temporary order was issued after the SIT presented its third-phase progress report, indicating that the investigation remains incomplete.
In addition to the extension, the High Court has suggested that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) may be allowed to access the FIR and associated case documents.
The court mentioned that the agency is permitted to submit an application to the Magistrate's Court for these records.
With this directive, the ED's involvement in the case seems imminent.
The SIT's progress report, submitted to the Travancore Devaswom Bench, indicated that further arrests are likely, suggesting that the probe is entering a crucial stage.
The High Court had earlier expressed concerns regarding potential connections to an idol-smuggling network, and the ED's participation is anticipated to expand the case's national significance.
Political speculation is already brewing that central agencies may ramp up their investigations into individuals associated with the Travancore Devaswom Board.
In a noteworthy development, the Kollam Vigilance Court denied the bail request of N. Vasu, former Devaswom Commissioner and Board President, who is implicated in the case.
The SIT has uncovered that in 2019, during Vasu's tenure, he recommended the gold-plated kathilappali panels be misreported as copper.
However, Vasu contended that the plates were turned over post-retirement and denied making any recommendations.
His plea, citing health and age concerns, was rejected, meaning he will remain in judicial custody.
As the SIT intensifies its investigation and the ED prepares to step in, the Sabarimala gold-plating case is set for significant developments in the upcoming weeks.
Since the SIT's investigation began six weeks ago, six individuals have been arrested, including two former TDB presidents, three TDB officials (two of whom are retired), and the main accused Unnikrishnan Potti.
Point of View
It is essential to observe the unfolding developments surrounding the Sabarimala gold-plating case with impartiality. The extension granted to the SIT reflects the complexity of the investigation, which has significant implications for both local governance and national law enforcement. The involvement of the ED highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for transparency in the judicial process.
NationPress
03/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold-plating case?
The Sabarimala gold-plating case involves allegations of misreporting gold-plated items as copper, implicating several officials within the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Why was the SIT given an extension?
The Kerala High Court granted the SIT a one-month extension to complete its investigation due to incomplete progress in their inquiry.
What role will the Enforcement Directorate play?
The Enforcement Directorate is expected to gain access to case documents and may further investigate financial aspects linked to the case.
Who is N. Vasu?
N. Vasu is the former Devaswom Commissioner and Board President, currently accused in the Sabarimala gold-plating case.
How many arrests have been made so far?
Six individuals have been arrested since the SIT began its investigation, including two former TDB presidents and the main accused, Unnikrishnan Potti.
