NATIONAL: Shabarimala Gold Theft Case: ED Takes Over Investigation
Court Approves ED Entry
A major step forward unfolded in the Sabarimala temple gold case when the Kollam Vigilance Court allowed the Enforcement Directorate to launch a complete probe.
This decision came after the ED sought access to investigate potential money laundering angles.
The court instructed the state-formed Special Investigation Team to transfer all essential files without delay.
Key Documents Handover Ordered
The ruling specified sharing copies of the two filed First Information Reports, along with remand details for the seven arrested individuals.
Other vital records, such as witness accounts, must also go to the ED. This move ensures the central agency can proceed smoothly with its inquiry.
ED’s Next Moves Under PMLA
With the green light, the ED plans to file a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
Sources indicate that police records are required to initiate an Enforcement Case Information Report.
The agency has already started preliminary checks into the alleged discrepancies.
SIT’s Ongoing Role
The Special Investigation Team continues its work on the weight mismatches in the temple’s gold-plated idols.
Appointed by the Kerala government, the SIT has handled arrests and evidence gathering so far.
Despite their opposition to dual probes, citing possible interference, the court overruled their concerns.
Background of the Dispute
The case stems from reported shortfalls in gold used for idol plating at the revered Ayyappan temple.
The ED first approached the Kerala High Court for permission to examine financial trails.
Following guidance from the higher court, they petitioned the vigilance court, leading to this outcome.
Recent Arrests and Developments
Seven people, including former officials from the Travancore Devaswom Board, face charges in the matter.
Recent arrests include ex-administrative officer S. Sreekumar and former board president A. Padmakumar, whose bail pleas were denied.
Courts cited strong evidence of conspiracy and rule violations in these decisions.
Implications for Temple Oversight
This shift highlights growing scrutiny on temple asset management in Kerala.
The involvement of a central agency like the ED suggests broader financial irregularities may be at play.
It could lead to stricter protocols for handling sacred valuables in the future.
Public and Legal Reactions
Devotees and legal experts watch closely as the probe expands. The SIT’s initial resistance underscores tensions between state and central investigations.
Yet, the court’s ruling prioritizes thorough examination to uncover the truth.