Daijiworld Media Network - Kollam

Kollam (Kerala), Apr 13: In a key development in the high-profile Sabarimala Temple gold scam case, a court in Kollam on Monday granted bail to K.P. Sankaradas, the last accused still in custody among the 13 individuals arrested by the Special Investigation Team (SIT).

The SIT, constituted under directions of the Kerala High Court, is probing alleged irregularities related to gold offerings at the Sabarimala shrine. With this latest order, all accused persons in the two related cases are now out on bail, marking a significant procedural stage in the ongoing investigation.

Those arrested include a serving official of the Travancore Devaswom Board, former employees, gold traders, and individuals linked to political circles, including former board officials associated with the CPI(M). The prime accused, Unnikrishnan Potti, is alleged to be the central figure in the suspected misappropriation network.

The case involves allegations of large-scale discrepancies in the handling, accounting, and movement of gold offerings donated by devotees at the hill shrine, one of India’s wealthiest and most visited pilgrimage centres.

The SIT was formed following widespread complaints and public concern over possible diversion and unauthorised transactions involving temple assets. Early findings reportedly suggested the involvement of intermediaries and insiders, pointing to systemic lapses in oversight and management.

While granting bail does not imply acquittal, the accused will continue to face trial as the investigation progresses. Authorities say the case remains under close watch due to its implications for transparency and governance in temple administration.

The outcome of the probe is expected to have wider repercussions on institutional accountability and the management of religious endowments in the state.