Unveiling the Controversies: Sabarimala Gold Theft Investigation Intensifies

The ongoing Sabarimala gold theft case sees new developments as Unnikrishnan Potti receives statutory bail. A probe into the misappropriation of temple gold continues amid allegations of fraud and discrepancies. The Enforcement Directorate conducts nationwide raids to investigate potential money laundering links to the scandal.

The Kollam Vigilance Court has granted statutory bail to Unnikrishnan Potti, a pivotal figure in the Sabarimala temple gold theft case. Despite securing bail, Potti remains incarcerated over another charge linked to the case. The bail comes as charges were not filed within the statutory 90-day period.

The Sabarimala gold theft scandal revolves around the alleged misappropriation of 4.54 kilograms of gold from temple artifacts, including sacred door frames and idols. Originating in 2019, the theft occurred under the guise of regilding activities purportedly using donated gold.

The inquiry can be traced back to a 1998 donation from industrialist Vijay Mallya. It involved substantial gold and copper contributions for temple enhancements, later found inconsistent with actual usage. Recent enforcement actions include raids by the Enforcement Directorate, targeting individuals and entities suspected of laundering money related to the misappropriation.

(With inputs from agencies.)