UDF Allegations Will Not Stand as Facts Emerge on Sabarimala Gold Theft Case, Says Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan

Kottayam: Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan has said that the release of the accused on bail in the gold theft case does not mean the case lacks merit. He noted that the High Court has expressed satisfaction with the Special Investigation Team’s (SIT) probe and that further aspects of the case are currently under investigation.

Referring to allegations surrounding the condition of the concrete flagpole at Sabarimala, the Minister said a vigilance inquiry is underway. He added that when a comprehensive investigation is completed, the UDF will have to clarify certain matters, including the circumstances under which Unnikrishnan Potty, the primary accused in the sabarimala gold theft case, became involved with senior congress leaders.

Unnikrishnan Potty, the prime accused in the gold theft case, was the first to allege that the gold plating had gone missing, a complaint that, according to the Minister, was intended to undermine the 'Ayyappa Sangamam'. Two days later, the UDF moved a motion in the Assembly on the issue. The Minister alleged that these developments were interconnected and accused the UDF of attempting to use Potty to target the 'Ayyappa Sangamam'.

He further stated that the gold, reported missing, was later recovered from Potty’s residence, indicating that the accused himself was involved in the theft. A Special Investigation Team was constituted following directions from the High Court, and the probe is progressing effectively, he said, adding that all those found guilty would be brought to justice.

The Minister clarified that the government does not have the authority to collect funds for the Global 'Ayyappa Sangamam', which is managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board. He also said that the Devaswom Board found the sponsors of the Ayyappa Sangamam organised in connection with its Platinum Jubilee celebrations.