Sabarimala Gold Theft Probe Gathers Momentum as SIT Prepares More Detentions
Thiruvananthapuram : The probe into the Sabarimala gold theft case is gathering momentum, as a result, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is reportedly gearing up for more detentions in the coming days.
With the prime accused, Unnikrishnan Potti, already in custody and nine others named in the First Information Report, meanwhile, political and legal tremors are being felt across the state. The SIT has filed two separate FIRs naming ten accused.
While Potti remains under interrogation, the remaining accused additionally face mounting anxiety over possible arrests. Sources indicate investigators are preparing for the next phase of action, making further detentions likely, which consequently could put the Pinarayi Vijayan government in a spot of bother.
Political Fallout Intensifies Amid Investigation
This legal escalation is unfolding against an increasingly volatile political backdrop. Both the Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party have intensified demands for the resignation of Devaswom Minister and CPI(M) leader V. N. Vasavan, along with board members of the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Furthermore, the BJP’s state leadership is lobbying its national leadership to push for a central agency probe, which could widen the investigation and deepen the crisis for the ruling front. With local body elections approaching, the opposition sees an opportunity to turn the scandal into a political flashpoint.
In response, the Kerala High Court recently gave six weeks to complete the investigation and submit findings in a sealed cover, while also urging the media to exercise caution and avoid sensationalizing the gold row.
–IANS
