Sabarimala Gold Theft Case: High Court Removes Vigilance Court Observation Against SIT, Retains Tantri's Bail
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Sabarimala gold theft case received temporary relief after the Kerala High Court expunged an observation made by the Kollam Vigilance Court stating that there was no evidence against Sabarimala Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru. However, the High Court clarified that the bail granted to the Tantri would not be cancelled.
The SIT had approached the High Court arguing that the Vigilance Court's remarks could adversely affect the progress of the investigation. It also sought the cancellation of the Tantri's bail, claiming that there was sufficient evidence indicating his involvement in the alleged conspiracy behind the theft.
Kandararu Rajeevaru was granted bail after spending 41 days in custody following his arrest in the case. According to the SIT, the Tantri had links with prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti and other individuals allegedly involved in the conspiracy. Investigators maintained that they possessed evidence supporting these claims. However, the SIT contended that the trial court had failed to examine the evidence presented or take these materials into consideration while granting bail.
Meanwhile, the SIT informed the court on Tuesday that the investigation into the 2025 incident involving the removal of the Dwarapalaka sculpture at Sabarimala had reached its final stages. Officials said details regarding those responsible for the crime would be disclosed in the next status report.
The investigation will also focus on the gold-plated copper sheets connected to the case. Additionally, the SIT has decided to extend its probe to copper plates dating back to 1998. The investigating team has requested that further inquiries be conducted with a Chennai-centric focus as part of efforts to uncover the full extent of the alleged conspiracy.