SIT Intensifies Probe Into Thantri’s Finances in Sabarimala Gold Theft Case
Thiruvananthapuram: In connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has intensified its probe into the financial transactions of Thantri Kandarar Rajeevarar. Investigators are suspicious because the Thantri is unwilling to file a complaint even after losing ₹2.5 crore that had been deposited in a private bank in Thiruvalla following the bank’s collapse.
The details of this large deposit came to light during an inquiry into the Thantri’s sources of income. He had not disclosed this deposit during any of his earlier questioning sessions. Although he mentioned that he had suffered financial losses during the floods, he concealed the fact that he had lost money in the bank.
The investigation team had earlier taken the Thantri into custody and questioned him to clarify his links with the other accused in the case and his dealings with Unnikrishnan Potti. Currently in remand, the Thantri’s bail application will be considered by the Vigilance Court on the 28th of this month.
Meanwhile, the probe is also widening to examine an alleged conspiracy involving the transport of gold-plated Dwarapalaka slabs from Sabarimala to Chennai without court approval. There are indications that former Travancore Devaswom Board president P. S. Prasanth may have played a key role. Investigators suspect that officials were sidelined and mandatory notifications to Devaswom Vigilance were skipped to facilitate the move.
With financial irregularities, procedural lapses, and possible high-level involvement coming to light, the Sabarimala gold theft case is fast emerging as a major scandal with multiple layers of conspiracy.