Kochi, 23 Dec (H.S.): Leader of the Opposition in Kerala, V.D. Satheesan, on Tuesday levelled serious allegations of political interference in the investigation into the Sabarimala gold heist case, claiming that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) came under pressure from the Chief Minister’s Office during the election period.

Addressing the media in Kochi, Satheesan alleged that two senior IPS officers, acting through the Chief Minister’s Office, exerted undue influence on the SIT, resulting in a slowdown of the probe. He warned that unless the officers concerned withdrew from interfering in the investigation, he would be compelled to reveal their identities publicly.

Satheesan recalled that the Opposition had initially demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged gold theft at Sabarimala. However, the demand was later withdrawn after the Kerala High Court took serious note of the issue and directly intervened by ordering the formation of an SIT. He said that had the High Court not stepped in, the theft that occurred in 2019 could have continued even in subsequent years.

According to Satheesan, the High Court’s recent observations validate the Opposition’s claim that the investigation lost momentum due to external pressure. He said the court was best placed to assess where the investigation progressed and where it was deliberately obstructed. With the High Court now monitoring the case, he expressed confidence that the probe would move forward in the right direction.

Making what he described as a grave allegation, Satheesan said two senior IPS officers entrusted with responsibilities by the Chief Minister’s Office were repeatedly attempting to influence the SIT. Out of courtesy, he said he was not naming them, but warned that continued interference would leave no option but to disclose their identities.

Emphasising the sensitivity of the case, Satheesan said it involved the alleged theft of gold belonging to Lord Ayyappa and must be investigated with complete honesty. He noted that pressure had been exerted even before the arrest of an accused named Vasu, though the SIT had managed to overcome it at that stage.

Clarifying his position, Satheesan said the Opposition was not expressing distrust in the SIT but was closely monitoring the investigation. Any lapse, he said, would be exposed, and those responsible, regardless of their stature, must be brought before the law. He expressed hope that judicial intervention would now ensure a fair, transparent, and uninterrupted investigation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman