SIT to move Kerala HC against Sabarimala tantri's bail

Kollam: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is considering approaching the High Court over remarks made in the Kollam Vigilance Court’s bail order granting relief to Tantri Kantararu Rajeevaru in the Sabarimala gold theft case.

The SIT believes certain observations in the order are factually incorrect and could adversely affect the ongoing investigation. A final decision on whether to move the High Court is expected on Monday.

Tantri Kantararu Rajeevaru was granted bail on the 41st day of his arrest.

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The opposition has intensified criticism against the state government, citing the court’s observations in the bail order. The Vigilance Court stated that the allegations against the Tantri were not prima facie valid.

The SIT, however, maintains that the remarks go into the merits of the case, which, it argues, is contrary to the Supreme Court’s direction that courts should refrain from making detailed observations on the merits while considering bail applications.

Legal experts are currently being consulted. If the SIT moves the High Court, it may seek removal of the contentious remarks and also question the order granting bail.

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The matter could be placed before the special single bench of the High Court that deals with vigilance cases. The SIT is expected to take a final call on its legal course of action on Monday.