Is the Sabarimala Gold Scam Case Deepening? Ex-official Murari Babu Detained by SIT
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Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, former Sabarimala Administrative Officer Murari Babu has been detained by the SIT in connection with the gold misappropriation scandal. This development raises questions about the extent of the alleged conspiracy and the potential implications for temple governance. Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds.
Key Takeaways
- Murari Babu detained by SIT for alleged involvement in the gold scam.
- Investigation spans from 2019 to 2024.
- Babu claims innocence and attributes decisions to higher authorities.
- SIT actively gathering witness testimonies.
- Ongoing scrutiny of temple governance and accountability.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 23 (NationPress) The former Administrative Officer of Sabarimala, Murari Babu, has been apprehended by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in relation to the Sabarimala gold embezzlement case.
His arrest occurred at his home in Kottayam district around 10 p.m. on Wednesday.
Babu held the position of the responsible official at the Sabarimala temple during the time of the alleged fraudulent activities in 2019. He has since been suspended by the Travancore Devasom Board, the governing body under which he served.
Following his detention, Babu was transported to the SIT's operational base in the state capital. It is expected that further developments will be revealed during the day.
He is implicated in cases involving the theft and illicit transportation of gold-plated panels and frames from the temple.
The SIT initiated its investigation with two separate FIRs, naming ten individuals as suspects, including the primary accused, Unnikrishnan Potti, who has already been arrested.
Babu is identified as an accused in both FIRs.
According to the SIT's findings thus far, Babu is believed to be a critical player in the conspiracy that has evolved from 2019 to 2024.
During his term as Administrative Officer in 2019, the alleged practice of substituting gold plating on the Dwarapalaka plates and wooden frames with copper plating reportedly commenced.
Accusations also suggest he oversaw the falsification of records.
Despite the allegations, Babu has consistently denied any misconduct.
He contends that the reference to copper plating in the mahazar (official record) was based on correspondence from the Tantri (chief priest).
Babu asserts that he merely provided a preliminary report, with the final decisions resting with higher authorities.
The SIT is actively gathering witness statements, currently questioning security personnel and temple staff who were present when the gold panels were reportedly removed from Sabarimala.
The local court has granted the SIT custody of the first accused, Potti, until October 30.
As the SIT continues its inquiries, officials are anticipated to travel to Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai for further evidence collection.
Point of View
I believe that the ongoing investigation into the Sabarimala gold misappropriation case reveals significant issues regarding accountability and transparency in temple administration. It is essential for justice to be served while ensuring that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold scam?
The Sabarimala gold scam involves allegations of misappropriation and illegal transport of gold-plated items from the Sabarimala temple.
Who is Murari Babu?
Murari Babu is the former Administrative Officer of Sabarimala, arrested in connection with the gold misappropriation case.
What actions has the SIT taken?
The Special Investigation Team has detained several individuals and is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the gold misappropriation.
What are the implications of this case?
This case raises serious concerns about governance and financial oversight within temple administrations.
When did the alleged scam occur?
The alleged scam is said to have begun in 2019 during Murari Babu's tenure as Administrative Officer.
