Sabarimala gold plating scam: SIT Takes Prime Accused into Custody

October 16, 2025

Thiruvananthapuram: In a major development in the Sabarimala gold plating scam, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Kerala High Court on Thursday took prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti into custody.

Potti, facing serious charges over the missing gold plates from the revered temple, was taken from his residence in Thiruvananthapuram around noon and moved to an undisclosed location for questioning.

Investigation Intensifies

Potti is the key accused among 10 individuals named in the two charge sheets filed in connection with the case. His arrest marks a critical turning point in the probe.

Sources said the SIT is expected to focus on tracing the missing gold, identifying the wider network involved, and examining financial trails linked to the scam. Potti will likely be confronted with technical and documentary evidence already gathered.

Widespread Public Outrage

The scam, which involved allegations of large-scale misappropriation and tampering during the gold plating of temple assets, had sparked significant public anger and demands for accountability from the Travancore Devaswom Board.

The controversy has also intensified political pressure, with both the Congress and BJP calling for the resignation of Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan.

High Court Intervention and SIT Action

The case gained momentum after the Kerala High Court intervened, directing the formation of the SIT due to lapses in the initial investigation. Since then, the SIT has intensified its operations, focusing on recovering the missing gold and ensuring that all responsible parties are brought to justice.

Officials indicated that further action will follow based on Potti’s statements. Depending on the outcome of the interrogation, Potti’s arrest may be formally recorded, or he could be served notice for future questioning.

Board Suspensions and Notices

In the wake of the scam, the Travancore Devaswom Board has suspended two officials involved in the case, which began in 2019, and has also issued notices to retired employees named in the charge sheet.

The development has once again placed the Sabarimala gold plating controversy in the public spotlight, with mounting pressure on authorities to ensure transparency and swift recovery of the missing assets.