What Happened in the Sabarimala Gold Scam Case with Ex-Officer Murari Babu?
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Synopsis
Former Sabarimala Administrative Officer Murari Babu was arrested by the SIT in a major gold misappropriation investigation. This case, dating back to 2019, has wider implications, raising questions about accountability within temple administration. Discover the unfolding details and the call for deeper inquiry into the higher echelons involved in this scandal.
Key Takeaways
- Murari Babu arrested in the Sabarimala gold scam.
- The investigation has revealed a conspiracy dating back to 2019.
- Key allegations involve the theft of gold-plated items from the temple.
- The SIT is expanding its probe to higher authorities.
- Witness statements are being actively recorded.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 23 (NationPress) The former Administrative Officer of Sabarimala, Murari Babu, was apprehended by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) late Wednesday night in connection with the gold misappropriation case. This arrest followed several hours of interrogation, according to officials on Thursday.
The SIT documented his arrest on Thursday, and he will be presented either in person or virtually before the Ranni Court in Pathanamthitta.
Babu was taken into custody from his home in Kottayam district around 10 p.m. on Wednesday.
In response to the arrest, Ajay Tharayil, a former member of the Travancore Devasom Board and Congress leader, remarked that this arrest of one official is insignificant.
“The SIT must expedite their investigation, as the mere arrest of a Babu or Unnikrishnan Potti will not suffice. The probe needs to extend to higher authorities, and everyone is eager to see how far the inquiry progresses,” Tharayil stated.
Babu was the official in charge at the Sabarimala temple during the alleged scam in 2019.
He was subsequently suspended by the Travancore Devasom Board, where he held a senior position.
After his detention, Babu was taken to the SIT camp office in the state capital. He is implicated in cases regarding the theft and illegal transportation of gold-plated items from the temple.
The SIT initially filed two separate FIRs and identified 10 individuals as accused, including the primary suspect, Unnikrishnan Potti, who has also been arrested.
Babu is named in both FIRs as an accused.
The investigation suggests that Babu was a crucial participant in the conspiracy, which allegedly unfolded from 2019 to 2024.
During his tenure as Administrative Officer in 2019, the practice of substituting gold plating on the Dwarapalaka plates and wooden frames with copper allegedly commenced.
He faces allegations of forging records that began under his oversight.
Despite the accusations, Babu has consistently denied any misconduct, asserting that the inclusion of copper plating in the mahazar (official record) stemmed from a letter issued by the Tantri (chief priest).
Babu contends that he merely submitted an initial report, with final authorization coming from higher-ups.
Meanwhile, the SIT has been actively recording witness statements and has started questioning security and temple personnel who were on duty when the gold panels were allegedly removed from Sabarimala.
The local court has granted custody of the first accused, Potti, to the SIT until October 30.
As the investigation continues, SIT officials are expected to travel to Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai to gather further evidence.
Point of View
We remain committed to delivering unbiased reporting. The arrest of Murari Babu underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in temple administration. Our focus is on ensuring that justice prevails and that the investigation reaches its rightful conclusions, regardless of the individuals involved.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold scam case?
The Sabarimala gold scam case involves allegations of misappropriation of gold from the Sabarimala temple, with several officials, including former Administrative Officer Murari Babu, implicated.
Who is Murari Babu?
Murari Babu is the former Administrative Officer of the Sabarimala temple, currently arrested by the SIT in connection to the gold misappropriation case.
What actions have been taken by the SIT?
The SIT has arrested Murari Babu, recorded witness statements, and is investigating the involvement of other officials and temple staff in the alleged scam.
When did the alleged scam take place?
The alleged scam is believed to have started in 2019 during Murari Babu's tenure as Administrative Officer.
What are the next steps in the investigation?
The SIT will continue to question witnesses and collect evidence from various locations, including Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai.
