Sabarimala Gold Case: Minister Demands Probe-Linked Officials' Removal
Sabarimala Gold Case: Minister Demands Probe-Linked Officials' Removal
Kerala Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan calls for the Travancore Devaswom Board to revoke appointments of officials embroiled in the Sabarimala gold loss investigation. Get the full story!
Kerala Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan has stepped in, demanding the withdrawal of a controversial circular issued by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB). This circular appointed officials who are currently under investigation in the Sabarimala gold loss case to key positions within the board. The Minister made his stance clear on Monday, stating that he had already communicated his concerns to TDB president K. Jayakumar.
Muraleedharan emphasized that while the TDB operates with independent powers, limiting direct government interference, his demand for the circular’s withdrawal remains firm. He highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating that if the circular is not corrected, the state government would be compelled to assume the current board's involvement in the alleged gold loss incident. This strong warning underscores the government's commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of temple affairs.
Despite his firm stance, Muraleedharan expressed his belief in the impartiality of TDB president Jayakumar, who was appointed by the previous LDF government. This suggests a desire to resolve the issue amicably while ensuring due process. The minister also clarified that the Devaswom Department's ability to take further action on the gold loss case is contingent on the Special Investigation Team (SIT) filing its charge sheets in the two related cases. He noted that these charge sheets are yet to be filed.
Looking ahead, Muraleedharan indicated that if any flaws are discovered in the charge sheets, the state cabinet would convene to decide on further investigations. He assured the public that intervention would occur if the findings in the charge sheets proved unsatisfactory. Adding another layer of intrigue, the minister hinted at potential new revelations concerning Sabarimala. He cited former Devaswom minister V.N. Vasavan's statement about forthcoming disclosures and mentioned reports of ex-TDB president and former MLA A. Padmakumar writing a book detailing alleged irregularities related to the hill shrine. These developments suggest that the Sabarimala gold loss case might be just the tip of the iceberg, with more information expected to surface in the near future.
