Sabarimala gold theft case: Tantri faces fresh arrest over wooden planks, mahazar fabrication

Kochi: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Kerala High Court is set to record the arrest of Sabarimala Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru in a second case, following fresh approval from the vigilance court. This move deepens the high-profile investigation into alleged irregularities linked to the Sabarimala temple.

The SIT has so far filed two separate charge sheets, naming 15 individuals as accused. Rajeevaru was arrested last week in connection with one of the cases registered by the probe team.

On Tuesday, after receiving the court’s nod, the SIT initiated steps to formally record the tantri’s arrest in the second case. Investigators are expected to complete the procedures at the hospital where he is currently undergoing treatment.

A day after his initial arrest in the gold theft case, Rajeevaru reportedly fell ill and was shifted to the Medical College Hospital, where he is now admitted to the Intensive Care Unit.

Second case involves alleged conspiracy and fraud

According to the SIT, the second case concerns an alleged conspiracy and fraud involving the preparation of a fabricated mahazar, in which gold was reportedly shown as copper, along with the illegal transportation of wooden planks linked to temple works.

The investigation team has told the court that Rajeevaru’s role is crucial to establishing the chain of events and assigning accountability among the accused.

Bail and remand updates

Meanwhile, the vigilance court has deferred the hearing on the tantri’s bail application to January 19.

The remand of former Travancore Devaswom Board president A. Padmakumar, another key accused, has been extended until January 27.

High Court verdict on CBI probe awaited

These developments gain added significance as the Kerala High Court is expected to deliver its verdict shortly on a plea seeking a CBI investigation into the alleged irregularities. The request for a central agency probe was filed by state BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who contended that the matter involves serious allegations warranting independent investigation.

With multiple arrests, expanding charge sheets, and the High Court’s impending decision on a CBI enquiry, the Sabarimala case is poised to enter a critical phase, carrying both legal and political ramifications for the state