Sabarimala gold theft: Kerala HC grants SIT 6-week extension to continue probe
Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Monday granted the Special Investigation Team (SIT) an additional six weeks to continue its probe into the Sabarimala gold theft case. This is the second extension, following a one-month extension granted on December 3. The case will next be considered by the court on January 19.
H Venkatesh, Additional Director General of Police and head of the SIT, submitted the latest report to the High Court. The court reviewed evidence and investigation records in a closed-door hearing, a move that has drawn public scrutiny.
The SIT was formed in October 2025, and the investigation has been ongoing throughout the ongoing Mandala season. The final report is now expected only after the Makaravilakku festival, scheduled for January 16.
The SIT had extended its probe beyond Kerala, focusing on a Tamil Nadu-based idol trader identified as D Mani, also known as Diamond Mani and Dawood Mani.
The case has attracted intense political attention and is widely regarded as one of the key factors behind the LDF’s defeat in the recent Kerala local self-government elections.
Two Devaswom Board presidents and three CPM leaders are currently in jail in connection with the case.
Former BJP state president K Surendran criticised the Congress after a photograph of Sonia Gandhi with prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti surfaced during the probe, calling for a central investigation.
Observers say that the court’s ruling on the case could significantly influence the upcoming Assembly elections.