Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Tuesday decided to suo motu register a new case in connection with the ongoing Sabarimala gold theft investigation, highlighting the need to maintain strict confidentiality in the probe.
SIT Progress and Court’s Concerns
The decision came after reviewing the progress made by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the court to investigate the alleged disappearance of gold plates from the Sabarimala temple.
“Certain aspects of the investigation required an additional layer of protection,” the bench observed, given the sensitive nature of the case.
The new proceedings are based on a report previously submitted by the Special Commissioner of the Sabarimala temple.
Respondents and Secrecy Measures
The court has included only the state government, the Travancore Devaswom Board, and the Devaswom Vigilance Department as respondents. Notably, the ten individuals named as accused in the two FIRs filed earlier are not parties to the new case, underscoring the court’s focus on preserving the integrity of the investigation.
The proceedings were held in camera, with counsels for the government and Devaswom Board present.
Investigation Timeline and Next Hearing
During the hearing, the SIT, led by SP S. Sashidharan, requested an additional two weeks to continue the probe beyond the initially sanctioned six-week period. The court has scheduled the next hearing for November 15.
Political Reactions and Broader Context
The fresh case comes amid political pressure, with both the Congress and BJP demanding the resignation of Devasom Minister V.N. Vasavan and members of the Devasom Board, as well as calling for a probe by a national agency.
The court’s move to register a separate case is seen as a measure to balance judicial oversight with the need for absolute secrecy in one of the most sensitive temple-related investigations in recent years.