Thiruvananthapuram: State vigilance investigators probing the suspected theft of gold and cash during the 2017 renovation of the Sabarimala shrine's flag mast began recording statements from high-profile donors Sunday, including several prominent film industry figures.

The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) launched the preliminary inquiry last week following an order from the Kerala High Court. The court’s directive was prompted by a Devaswom Vigilance report flagging potential misappropriation in the construction of the Kodimaram (temple flag mast).

According to VACB officials, investigators have identified 27 primary sponsors who contributed gold for the project nearly a decade ago.

"Statements of around 10 people, including filmmaker Shaji Kailas, actor-writer Renji Panicker and producer Suresh Kumar, have already been recorded," an official confirmed. Other major donors, including actor Mohanlal and Member of Parliament Suresh Gopi, are expected to provide testimony once a schedule is finalised.

The Missing Gold

The investigation focuses on a documented discrepancy between the gold collected and the gold used. A report from the Chief Vigilance Officer of the Travancore Devaswom Board revealed:

  • Customs Purchase: 9.161 kilograms of gold were bought from the Customs Department in March 2017.
  • Devotee Contributions: 412 grams were donated by the public.
  • The Disparity: While 9,573.010 grams were reportedly available for the project, official records show only 9,340.200 grams were utilised.

The Kerala High Court previously criticised the lack of individual receipts, noting that the failure to provide donors with documentary proof was a "serious procedural lapse" and a "grave violation" of financial accountability standards.

Expanding the Net

The VACB team, led by Special Investigation Unit-1 SP C.S. Hari, is now verifying the exact quantities donated by each identified sponsor. Investigators are also looking for additional individuals who may have contributed gold or money that was never officially recorded.

The High Court has granted the VACB 30 days to conclude the preliminary inquiry and submit its findings. If the report confirms criminal intent, a formal case involving charges such as criminal breach of trust and falsification of records will be registered.

The flag mast project, approved in 2016 at an estimated cost of 3.20 crore, was originally intended to be funded entirely by a Hyderabad-based infrastructure firm.

With inputs from PTI