Unnikrishnan Potty Accused of Stealing 2 Kg Gold; Slipper Hurled Outside Court

Pathanamthitta: In a significant development, the Special Investigation Team’s (SIT) remand report in the Sabarimala gold theft case has accused sponsor Unnikrishnan Potty of misappropriating two kilograms of gold. The report emphasizes the necessity of his custody to recover the stolen precious metal. It details that approximately two kilograms of gold-plated copper sheets, originally affixed to the ‘Dwarapala’ sculptures and door frames, were illicitly removed by Potty under the pretext of repair work, thereby committing a breach of trust.

The investigation reveals that Potty, in violation of legal orders and procedural norms, took possession of the gold and transported it to Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and subsequently to Chennai Smart Creations. The remand report further alleges that only 394 grams of gold were used for plating, with Potty pocketing the remaining quantity, resulting in an unjust loss to the Travancore Devaswom Board.

Following the alleged misappropriation, the ‘Dwarapala’ sculptures, panels, and copper sheets were reportedly moved to various unsecured homes and temples in Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kerala for ceremonial pujas. The court has remanded Unnikrishnan Potty into custody until October 30.

Meanwhile, a dramatic incident unfolded outside the court as Unnikrishnan Potty was being escorted out. Sinu S Panicker, a BJP office-bearer, hurled a slipper at him. The Ranni First Class Judicial Magistrate remanded Potty to custody after secret proceedings, where only the Magistrate, the accused, prosecution, defense lawyers, investigating officers, and key court staff were present. Media personnel and other individuals related to different cases were asked to leave the courtroom during the proceedings, a decision made at the request of the special investigation team.