The Sabarimala temple, a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site in Kerala attracting millions of devotees annually, is at the center of a widening scandal involving allegations of gold theft and fraud. Today, a court will hear arguments regarding bail for Kanthararu Rajeevaru, the temple’s head priest, who is currently in custody. The case has sparked public outrage and prompted scrutiny of the temple’s financial management by the Kerala High Court,which recently pointed to potential lapses in the ongoing investigation and a possible conspiracy to defraud the temple of notable assets; reports estimate the stolen gold to be worth millions of dollars.
Sabarimala Gold Theft case Updates: A key figure in the ongoing investigation into the theft of gold from the Sabarimala temple is expected to learn his fate today, as a court considers a bail request. The case, which has drawn significant attention in Kerala, centers around allegations of conspiracy to defraud the famed temple.
Kanthararu Rajeevaru, the head priest, or “tantri,” of the Sabarimala temple, is currently in custody and seeking release. Investigators allege he was directly involved in a scheme to replace original gold ornaments with less valuable replicas. The priest’s defense team maintains his innocence, claiming he has been wrongly implicated in the theft.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is strongly opposing bail for Rajeevaru, arguing that his position and influence could be used to intimidate witnesses and potentially tamper with evidence. According to the SIT, granting bail would allow him to leverage his spiritual authority and widespread influence to obstruct the investigation.
Investigators are also seeking further inquiry into financial transactions between the tantri and Unnikrishnan Potty, a primary suspect in the case. The SIT’s remand report states that releasing the tantri would send the wrong message to the public, given allegations that he violated religious customs and betrayed the faith of devotees.
The case took another turn as the Kerala High Court recently criticized both the Travancore Devaswom Board and the investigation team while considering bail applications from three other accused individuals. The court observed that there appeared to be a conspiracy at play and significant lapses in the investigation, postponing a decision on the three bail requests. The court has reserved its verdict on those applications.
During proceedings related to the first accused, Govardhan, a gold merchant, the court questioned whether he possessed the financial means to make the substantial donations he claimed to have given to the temple. Govardhan testified that he is a devout follower of Ayyappa and has contributed 14 million rupees (approximately $168,000 USD) to the temple, including funding the gold plating of the shrine’s main door. He stated he provided a demand draft for the value of the gold in 2019 and offered a 30-year warranty on the work. The SIT previously raided Rajeevaru’s home as part of the investigation.
Govardhan also stated he repaired a damaged gold panel on the door, citing a warranty on the original work. The court pressed him on his ability to afford such contributions, and he affirmed his cooperation with the investigation. Authorities have indicated they plan to take the tantri into custody for further questioning regarding financial dealings.
The unfolding case highlights concerns about financial oversight and potential corruption within the administration of the historically significant Sabarimala temple. The investigation continues as authorities seek to determine the full extent of the alleged gold theft and the involvement of those implicated.
