Sabarimala Gold Row: Unnikrishnan Potti’s Transactions Under Intelligence Lens, Vigilance Steps In
Thiruvananthapuram: The Intelligence Department has launched an investigation into the transactions of Unnikrishnan Potti, one of the sponsors of the Sabarimala gold sheet. Findings suggest that Potti was involved in financial dealings worth several crores in the state capital alone. The Intelligence probe has also focused on his large-scale land transactions. It has been alleged that he advanced money at blade interest and acquired multiple properties in his own name. Records reveal that within just three years, land deals worth more than ₹30 crore were carried out. A former Devaswom contractor from the capital city is reported to be Potti’s intermediary. Information also indicates that land was acquired not only in his name but also under the names of his wife and mother.
Meanwhile, Devaswom Vigilance is set to question sponsor Unnikrishnan Potti tomorrow in connection with the gold sheet controversy. According to Vigilance, Potti’s dealings are riddled with irregularities. Explanations will also be sought on the controversy regarding the gold-plated Dwarapalaka idols and the missing pedestal. On July 20, 2019, the sheets were removed, but they reached the Chennai-based company Smart Creation only after 40 days. Potti will have to explain where they were during that one-month gap. Devaswom officials will also need to answer why the reduction of four kilograms in weight was not recorded in the mahazar when the sheets were returned.
Vigilance has further found that, using Sabarimala as a platform, sponsor Unnikrishnan Potti collected money extensively. There are also suspicions that the gold sheets were taken to Bengaluru in violation of rules as part of these fundraising efforts.