Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Thursday raised concerns over financial discrepancies in the accounts of the Global Ayyappa Sangamam (Ayyappa Summit) and directed the auditor to submit a comprehensive audit report within 10 days.

The matter surfaced during the court’s examination of alleged financial irregularities linked to the event, which was held at Sabarimala on September 20, 2025.

During the hearing, the auditor informed the Bench that inconsistencies had been detected in the financial statements submitted for the programme. The court sought clarification on corrective measures and asked for a detailed report explaining the discrepancies and potential rectification steps.

The court had previously scrutinised the accounts prepared for the Sangamam and directed Vijayan Associates, the firm assigned by the Travancore Devaswom Board, to be impleaded in the case and present all relevant records.

The Bench had earlier criticised the delay in submitting final accounts, noting that several months had passed since the conclusion of the event without properly consolidated financial statements. While accounts prepared by a private chartered accountant were submitted via the Special Commissioner, discrepancies were reportedly found during examination.

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In response, the Travancore Devaswom Board formed a committee to verify the accounts. However, a consolidated and verified statement has yet to be presented in court. The State Audit Department informed the court that the Board had not provided the financial records required for verification, although the Board stated that all documents had been handed to the private accountant for account preparation.

The High Court will review the matter again after the auditor submits the detailed audit report as directed, aiming to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of funds related to the Global Ayyappa Sangamam.

IANS