Kollam, 18 Feb (H.S.):
The Vigilance Court in Kollam is set to pronounce its order today on the bail petition filed by Sabarimala temple Tantri Kandararu Rajeevar in connection with the alleged Sabarimala gold theft case.
Rajeevar has been named as an accused in cases related to the alleged theft of gold from the temple’s ‘kattilappadi’ (gold-plated threshold) and the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols. The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is probing the case, recently submitted what it described as crucial details regarding the financial transactions of the Tantri and his family before the court.
According to the SIT, evidence gathered during the investigation points to a close association between Rajeevar and the prime accused, Unnikrishnan Potti. Investigators contend that this relationship played a role in facilitating the alleged gold theft. The prosecution has strongly opposed the grant of bail at this stage, arguing that the investigation into the financial dealings of the Tantri is still ongoing and that his release could hamper further inquiries.
During the hearing, the SIT informed the court that deposits amounting to ₹2.05 crore were found in the Tantri’s name in a private financial institution. Additionally, ₹62 lakh was reportedly deposited in the name of his wife. The prosecution also pointed out that Rajeevar had received ₹7.5 lakh from the Devaswom Board, raising further questions about financial transactions linked to the case.
Opposing the allegations, Rajeevar’s counsel argued that the Tantri’s role at Sabarimala is strictly confined to ritualistic and spiritual duties. He maintained that the Tantri has no administrative authority or involvement in temple management and therefore cannot be held responsible for matters relating to temple assets or governance.
The prosecution, however, reiterated that given the seriousness of the charges and the alleged financial links with the prime accused, bail should not be granted at this juncture.
The court’s decision on the bail plea is expected to have significant implications for the ongoing investigation into the high-profile temple gold theft case, which has attracted widespread public attention across Kerala.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
