Former Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran Questioned in Sabarimala Gold Theft Case

Thiruvananthapuram: A special investigation team (SIT) has questioned former Devaswom Minister and CPM state committee member Kadakampally Surendran in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case. The SIT questioned Surendran on Saturday. It is understood that he was questioned in his capacity as the minister responsible for Devaswom affairs at the time of the gold theft. Former Devaswom Board President P.S. Prashanth was also reportedly questioned by the SIT on the 26th.

The statement given by former Devaswom Board member N. Vijayakumar, who was arrested recently, has further complicated matters for former Devaswom Board President A. Padmakumar, who was arrested earlier. Vijayakumar reportedly told the SIT that he was innocent and had acted only on the instructions of “comrade” (referring to Padmakumar). He stated that Padmakumar was the one who brought up matters such as changing the gold plating before the board. All major decisions were made as per the President’s directives, and he signed the documents without even reading them, unaware of any potential issues, Vijayakumar claimed.

Vijayakumar’s statement also revealed that he felt suicidal due to the unbearable pressure. He decided to surrender after being persuaded by relatives. He reiterated that he did everything as instructed by Padmakumar and signed the documents trusting him, adding that other details were not explained to him.

With the arrests of Padmakumar and Vijayakumar, the SIT’s next target appears to be K.P. Shankardas. The SIT is closely monitoring Shankardas’s movements, as he has requested a postponement of his questioning citing health reasons. Although Vijayakumar has been remanded by the court until January 12, his bail application will be considered by the Kollam Vigilance Court tomorrow.