No relevance in taking a decision at present to change the Tantri position; ED investigation welcomed: TDB President K. Jayakumar
Travancore Devaswom Board President K. Jayakumar welcomed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft case. He said there is currently no relevance in taking a decision regarding a change in the position of the Sabarimala Tantri (chief priest). He clarified that a decision will be taken at the appropriate time based on principles of dharma.
K. Jayakumar stated that the ED investigation should proceed in its own way and that he is not concerned about it. He added that no matter how large the financial irregularity is, it must come to light. Kandarar Mahesh Mohanar is holding the responsibility of Tantri until October. The SIT report states that all actions related to the Sabarimala gold theft occurred with the knowledge of the Tantri. Serious details are included in the petition filed at the Kollam Vigilance Court opposing the bail plea of Tantri Kandarar Rajeevar.
In the case, former Devaswom Board member N. Vijayakumar, who was arrested, has been remanded again by the court. The ED is also tightening its actions in connection with irregularities related to Sabarimala. The ED has collected details regarding irregularities in the sale of leftover ghee offerings. The ED’s intervention followed the vigilance arrest of former Keezhsanthi (assistant priest) Sunilkumar Potti.