Sabarimala Gold Theft Case: SIT Summons Former Devaswom Board Members from 2019 for Questioning
In a significant escalation of the ongoing Sabarimala gold fraud investigation, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has initiated a crucial phase by issuing summons to members of the Travancore Devaswom Board who were in office during 2019. These high-ranking officials are now required to appear before the SIT for questioning as part of the rigorous probe into allegations of conspiracy, cheating, and the illicit theft of gold from the sacred idols within the Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple. This move underscores the seriousness of the charges and the commitment of the investigative agencies to uncover the truth behind the alleged misappropriation of valuable temple assets.
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) is the autonomous body responsible for administering over 1,200 temples in Kerala, including the renowned Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, one of the most prominent pilgrimage centers in South India. The allegations of gold theft and fraud within such a revered institution have sent ripples across the state, prompting a thorough and wide-ranging inquiry. The notices served to former presidents and commissioners of the board indicate that the SIT is casting a wide net, looking into all aspects of governance and financial dealings related to the temple’s gold reserves during the specified period.
Adding another layer to the complex legal proceedings, Roddam Pandurangayya Naga Govardhan, a prominent jewelry merchant and one of the prime accused in the Sabarimala gold theft case, has sought relief from the Kerala High Court. Govardhan has filed an anticipatory bail application, asserting his cooperation with the investigative authorities. In his plea, he claimed that despite his willingness to assist the Special Investigation Team, gold was forcibly seized from him. He has vehemently denied any involvement in the illegal possession or handling of the temple’s gold, maintaining his innocence against the grave accusations.
Govardhan elaborated on his historical association with the temple, stating that he had, on multiple occasions, generously donated gold for various works essential to the upkeep and ornamentation of the revered shrine. Specifically, he highlighted a donation made in June 2019, comprising 184 grams of gold, valued at approximately 9 lakh rupees at the time, which was intended for gilding purposes at the temple. This assertion forms a key part of his defense as he seeks to counter the charges laid against him. It is noteworthy that Govardhan is currently implicated in two separate cases registered by the Crime Branch, both revolving around the alleged misappropriation of gold from the Dwarpala idols, the ornate door frames, and the decorative panels adorning the Sreekoil (sanctum sanctorum) of the Sabarimala temple.
Having been placed in judicial custody following his arrest on December 19, Govardhan is now actively pursuing bail in both aforementioned cases. The First Information Reports (FIRs) filed by the Crime Branch enumerate a comprehensive list of charges, reflecting the severity and multi-faceted nature of the alleged offenses. These charges include, but are not limited to, Sections 403 (Dishonest misappropriation of property), 406 (Criminal breach of trust), 409 (Criminal breach of trust by public servant), 466 (Forgery of record of court or public register), and 467 (Forgery of valuable security) of the Indian Penal Code. Furthermore, the ambit of the charges extends to include Section 13(1)(a) of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, underscoring the potential involvement of public servants and the aspect of corruption in the alleged crimes.
In a procedural move, Justice Muraleekrishna S. has scheduled the next hearing for December 30. This adjournment is to facilitate the Public Prosecutor in receiving necessary instructions pertinent to the ongoing proceedings, a standard step in complex legal cases of this magnitude. The Sabarimala gold theft case continues to be a matter of considerable public and religious interest, given the sanctity of the institution involved and the serious allegations against individuals associated with its administration. The progression of the SIT’s investigation and the judicial proceedings will be closely watched as stakeholders await clarity and justice in this high-profile matter.