Did Sabarimala Gold Heist Suspect Murari Babu Receive Bail?
Synopsis
In a major twist in the Sabarimala gold heist case, suspended TDB officer Murari Babu has received bail. This milestone marks the first release on bail for an accused in this ongoing investigation, stirring public interest and political debate.
Key Takeaways
Murari Babu granted bail in Sabarimala gold heist case.
Only active TDB employee arrested so far.
Investigation by SIT continues with more arrests possible.
Bail granted after 90 days of custody due to lack of charge sheet.
Case has sparked political debate in Kerala.
Kollam (Kerala), Jan 23 (NationPress) In a pivotal turn of events regarding the Sabarimala gold heist investigation, the suspended Administrative Officer of the Travancore Devaswom Board, Murari Babu, who has been in judicial custody, was granted bail by the Kollam Vigilance Court on Friday.
Murari Babu stands out as the only current employee of the TDB to face arrest so far in this high-profile case.
To date, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Kerala High Court has apprehended a total of 13 individuals, with Babu being the second arrest following the main accused, Unnikrishna Potti.
The court has granted bail to Murari Babu concerning both the 'Dwarapalaka' (gatekeeper) gold plates case and the 'Kattilappala' (wooden panel) gold case.
This relief comes after 90 days had passed since his arrest, making him eligible for statutory bail due to the investigating agency's inability to file a charge sheet within the required timeframe.
Bail for Murari Babu was granted with strict conditions set by the court.
On Thursday, discussions regarding his bail requests in both cases concluded, after which the court reserved its decision.
As a result of this favorable ruling, Murari Babu becomes the first suspect in the Sabarimala gold heist case to be released on bail.
Previously, the primary accused, Potti, had received statutory bail in the 'Dwarapalaka' case but remains in custody in the 'Kattilappala' matter, as the mandatory 90-day period has yet to conclude.
Investigators have asserted that the inquiries into both cases are ongoing, and further arrests and recoveries cannot be discounted.
Meanwhile, the remand for another accused, Tantri Kantarar Rajeevar, has been prolonged by an additional 14 days.
The court is set to address the Tantri’s bail application on January 28.
The Sabarimala gold heist case, which entails accusations of the misappropriation of gold plates and panels utilized in temple structures, has sparked widespread controversy and political discourse across Kerala.
The fact that Murari Babu is the only active employee of the Travancore Devaswom Board to have been arrested has added a significant layer of sensitivity to the case, amplifying scrutiny on the governance of one of the state's most renowned temple bodies.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain objective. The granting of bail to Murari Babu, the only active TDB employee arrested, raises important questions about accountability within the temple administration. This case continues to unfold, reflecting broader societal concerns and the need for transparency in such high-stakes investigations.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold heist case about?
The case involves allegations of misappropriation of gold plates and panels used in temple structures.
How many people have been arrested in connection with this case?
A total of 13 individuals have been arrested by the Kerala High Court-appointed SIT.
What are the conditions of Murari Babu's bail?
The bail has been granted under stringent conditions as imposed by the court.
When will the next hearing regarding the case take place?
The court is scheduled to consider Tantri Kantarar Rajeevar’s bail plea on January 28.
