Controversy and Allegations Shadow Kerala's Global Ayyappa Sangamam

The Opposition Congress in Kerala has accused the state government of financial misconduct related to the Global Ayyappa Sangamam event, drawing parallels to previous incidents of gold theft at Sabarimala. State officials, however, deny any irregularities, with discussions now unfolding in the High Court.

The Opposition Congress in Kerala has intensified its criticisms against the state's administration, claiming financial improprieties linked to the recent Global Ayyappa Sangamam event. They allege a continuation of the 'gold theft' scandal from Sabarimala, raising eyebrows at the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB).

Prominent Congress figures, including K C Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala, have criticized the CPI(M)-led government, asserting they can't extricate themselves from accountability. In contrast, state Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan defends the event's financial integrity, noting all advance payments were duly refunded.

The controversy has reached the Kerala High Court, which is seeking explanations on discrepancies in the event's audit report. Meanwhile, opposition leader V D Satheesan is calling for transparency and accountability regarding the alleged misappropriation of funds.

(With inputs from agencies.)