Sabarimala Chief Priest Arrested
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested Kandararu Rajeevaru, the Chief Priest of the Sabarimala temple, in connection with a high-profile gold theft case. His arrest is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding gold plating at the revered temple, located in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala.
Rajeevaru is the eleventh individual to be arrested in this case, stemming from statements made by key suspects, including Unnikrishnan Potty, who is considered the prime accused, and Padmakumar, a former president of the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Background of the Gold Controversy
The Sabarimala gold controversy has roots dating back to a significant donation made in 1998 by industrialist Vijay Mallya. This donation included 30.3 kilograms of gold and 1,900 kilograms of copper, intended for the temple’s sanctum sanctorum and its ornate wooden carvings. Famously known for its strict adherence to tradition, the temple’s integrity is now under scrutiny due to these allegations.
According to SIT officials, Rajeevaru had close ties with accused Potty and played a role in recommending the replating of certain temple elements, including the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) plates and the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) doorframe plates. This has raised questions about the temple’s internal processes and governance.
Details of the Investigation
Progress and Timeline
Authorities indicated that the investigation has seen substantial progress. As of now, the SIT has examined 181 witnesses to gather evidence surrounding the alleged gold theft and misuse. Official sources reported that Rajeevaru had previously been questioned earlier in the investigation process, which ultimately led to his arrest.
On the day of his arrest, Rajeevaru was initially interrogated at an undisclosed location before being transferred to the SIT office, where formal arrest procedures were conducted. This operation took place after the SIT had gained substantial evidence and leads regarding the involvement of multiple stakeholders.
Political Reactions
The Sabarimala gold controversy has prompted various reactions, notably from political figures. Kerala Bharatiya Janata Party President Rajeev Chandrasekhar called the developments “far more disturbing than what we first knew,” emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. He has advocated for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the situation, citing a need for justice for devotees and accountability for those involved.
Chandrasekhar insisted that the alleged looting extended beyond the known quantities, claiming that investigations suggest that four Panchaloha idols had been taken from the temple and sold to international criminal syndicates.
Court Involvement and Next Steps
The Kerala High Court has reacted to the ongoing investigation by expressing its satisfaction with the SIT’s progress. Recently, the court granted the SIT an additional six weeks to continue their inquiries, acknowledging the complexity of the case and the need for a comprehensive understanding of the events surrounding the gold theft.
Legal officials noted that the investigation comprises various components, including examining the temple’s governance, the approval processes for donations, and the nature of interactions between temple authorities and external parties. This thorough examination aims to uncover any systemic issues that may facilitate such irregularities.
Public Sentiment and Concerns
The Sabarimala temple is regarded as one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in India, attracting millions annually. Given the emotional attachment devotees harbor for the temple and its integrity, the ongoing investigation has stirred significant concern among the public. Many express anxiety over the potential erosion of trust in temple management and the proper handling of religious donations.
Devotees and community leaders have voiced the need for transparency in the investigation process. They believe that the temple authorities should prioritize accountability to restore faith among the faithful and ensure that such controversies do not mar the temple’s sanctity going forward.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead
As the SIT continues its investigations, many anticipate further revelations that could impact both local and national perceptions of the temple’s management. The focus now will be on how the SIT will navigate the complexities of the case and the broader implications for temples across India.
Moving forward, additional arrests could occur as the investigations proceed. Special attention will likely be paid to the governance structures surrounding prominent temples, aiming to prevent future discrepancies and enhance the integrity of these sacred sites.