Has Tantri Rajeevar Secured Bail in the Sabarimala Gold Theft Case?
Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, Tantri Kantarar Rajeevar has been granted bail in the Sabarimala gold theft case. This development raises questions about the ongoing investigation and the implications for the accused as the court found insufficient evidence linking him to the alleged theft.
Key Takeaways
Tantri Kantarar Rajeevar has been granted bail in the Sabarimala gold theft case .
The court found no direct evidence linking him to the alleged theft.
Rajeevar becomes the sixth accused to secure bail.
The SIT continues its investigation amid claims of suspicious finances.
Thirteen arrests have been made, with six individuals obtaining bail.
Kollam, Feb 18 (NationPress) The Kollam Vigilance Court granted Tantri Kantarar Rajeevar bail on Wednesday in connection with the high-profile Sabarimala gold theft case. This marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigation.
The court’s decision followed bail requests related to the Kattillappalli and Dwarapalaka idol cases.
It was noted that there is currently no prima facie evidence directly linking Rajeevar to the alleged gold theft.
The court accepted the defense’s argument that his involvement was confined to ceremonial and spiritual duties, without any administrative or financial authority.
The prosecution was unable to demonstrate a direct link between Rajeevar and main suspect Unnikrishnan Potti, who was also released on bail.
Conditions for bail were stringent, considering Rajeevar’s health.
This outcome is seen as a setback for the Special Investigation Team (SIT), which had opposed bail, advocating for continued custody for further inquiries.
During the proceedings, the SIT presented what they claimed was vital evidence regarding the asset accumulation of Rajeevar and his wife, alleging significant unaccounted funds.
The prosecution contended that the financial origins of the accused were suspect, necessitating a thorough investigation.
In contrast, the defense maintained that Rajeevar’s role was strictly limited to traditional temple responsibilities, having no involvement in the alleged theft.
With Rajeevar's release, he becomes the sixth individual tied to the case to receive bail, following Potti, Vasu, and Murari Babu.
Arrested on January 9, he is the second accused to gain bail prior to completing 90 days in custody.
Previously, former administrative officer S. Sreekumar was also granted bail.
Meanwhile, former Devaswom Board president A. Padmakumar has filed for statutory bail in the Kattillappalli case, with his request set for consideration on February 19. Two bail applications by K.P. Shankardas on health grounds are scheduled for discussion on February 23.
To date, 13 individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, with six securing bail.
Point of View
We view the recent bail granted to Tantri Rajeevar in the Sabarimala gold theft case as a noteworthy development. The decision reflects the complexities of the legal process and raises questions about the adequacy of evidence in high-profile cases. The ongoing investigation will be closely monitored as it unfolds.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Tantri Kantarar Rajeevar?
Tantri Kantarar Rajeevar is a key figure in the Sabarimala gold theft case, recently granted bail by the Kollam Vigilance Court.
What are the implications of the bail?
The bail granted may indicate insufficient evidence linking Rajeevar to the gold theft, prompting questions about the investigation's direction.
How many people have been arrested in this case?
A total of 13 individuals have been arrested so far, with six securing bail.
What did the SIT present during the hearing?
The SIT presented evidence suggesting questionable financial activities related to Tantri and his wife.
What is the status of other accused in the case?
Several other accused, including Unnikrishnan Potti, have also been granted bail.
