Sabarimala Tantri Granted Bail Amid Gold Misappropriation Allegations

Kandararu Rajeevaru, Sabarimala's chief priest, was granted bail by a vigilance court amid allegations involving gold misappropriation from the Lord Ayyappa shrine. He is the 16th accused in the case, linked to both idol and sanctum sanctorum gold loss incidents. The special investigation continues.

Kandararu Rajeevaru, the chief priest of Sabarimala, has been granted bail by a vigilance court in connection with cases alleging misappropriation of gold from the Lord Ayyappa shrine, police sources reported. Rajeevaru, listed as the 16th accused, is implicated in two cases involving gold loss from the temple.

The first case pertains to the Dwarapalaka idols, while the second is related to the door frames of the Sreekovil. Despite obtaining bail, Rajeevaru remains a key figure in the ongoing investigations, underscored by a special investigation team (SIT).

The SIT has accused Rajeevaru of being aware that gold-clad plates were removed illegally from the temple in 2019 and failing to report this to the authorities. A detailed court order outlining the proceedings is expected soon.

(With inputs from agencies.)