Thiruvananthapuram, 22 Jan (H.S.):The Supreme Court will today hear the bail plea of N. Vasu, an accused in the high-profile Sabarimala gold heist case, marking a crucial stage in the long-running investigation into alleged financial irregularities linked to the famed hill shrine. A Bench headed by Justice Deepankar Datta will consider Vasu’s appeal challenging the Kerala High Court order that denied him bail.
Vasu approached the Supreme Court after the High Court refused to grant him relief, citing the gravity of the allegations and the ongoing nature of the probe. In his appeal, Vasu has contended that the investigation has reached an advanced stage, with most of the key procedures and evidence collection already completed. He has argued that his continued custodial detention is no longer necessary for the purposes of investigation.
The petitioner has also sought bail on humanitarian grounds, pointing to his age and health condition. According to the appeal, prolonged incarceration would cause irreparable hardship and is disproportionate, especially when the investigating agencies have already gathered substantial material in the case. The defence has urged the apex court to take a compassionate view while balancing the interests of justice.
Earlier this week, Vasu was remanded again in the case. On Monday, the Kollam Vigilance Court extended his judicial custody for another 14 days. He is scheduled to be produced before the court again on February 2. The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) has maintained that custodial remand was required in view of the seriousness of the alleged offences and the broader ramifications of the case.
Meanwhile, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its parallel probe under money-laundering laws. The agency has provisionally attached assets worth ₹1.3 crore belonging to key accused in the case, officials confirmed. As part of the action, 100 grams of gold were seized from a jewellery establishment, Smart Creations, which is believed to be linked to the alleged laundering of proceeds of crime.
The ED has stated that its investigation will also examine whether financial fraud was carried out under the guise of religious rituals and customary practices associated with Sabarimala. According to the agency, any misuse of temple-related activities for illegal financial gain would fall within the scope of its inquiry.
The Supreme Court’s decision on Vasu’s bail plea is expected to have a significant bearing on the future course of the case, which has drawn widespread public attention due to its religious, legal and financial implications.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
