Actor Jayaram Faces ED Interrogation in Sabarimala Gold Smuggling Investigation
Prominent actor Jayaram appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday for questioning in connection with the alleged gold smuggling case at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in Kerala. This high-profile interrogation marks a significant development in the ongoing probe into the misappropriation of sacred temple artefacts.
Jayaram's Statement to Media Before ED Questioning
Before entering the ED office, Jayaram addressed reporters with a firm stance on the matter. He declared that "all those involved in the matter should be caught and that Lord Ayyappa will not spare the culprits." The actor emphasized the sanctity of Sabarimala, stating, "Sabarimala is a sacred place for every devotee, regardless of religion. If any scam has occurred in Sabarimala, it must be brought to light; this is the responsibility of every Malayali."
Jayaram further explained his involvement, noting that he has been invited to various temple ritual activities over the past decade. He pledged full cooperation with investigators, saying, "If I can provide any lead to the investigation, I will do so. Anyone involved in this must be booked." This appearance follows his questioning last month by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) regarding the same allegations.
Details of the Sabarimala Gold Theft Case
The ED's investigation specifically focuses on Jayaram's association with prime suspect Unnikrishnan Potty. The case revolves around allegations of misappropriating approximately 4.54 kilograms of gold from sacred temple artefacts, including the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) door frames and Dwarapalaka idols.
The theft is alleged to have occurred in 2019 under the guise of refinishing and re-gold-plating temple structures. This controversy has deep roots, tracing back to a 1998 donation by industrialist Vijay Mallya, who contributed 30.3 kilograms of gold and 1,900 kilograms of copper for gold plating and cladding at the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple.
Subsequent inspections and court-monitored inquiries have revealed significant discrepancies between the donated gold and the quantity allegedly used in the temple work. These findings have raised serious concerns about potential fraud and mismanagement involving precious temple resources.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigations
The Sabarimala gold smuggling case has captured national attention due to its connection to one of India's most revered pilgrimage sites. The involvement of high-profile individuals like Jayaram adds complexity to the investigation, which aims to uncover the full extent of the alleged misappropriation.
Authorities continue to examine financial records, temple administration documents, and witness testimonies to piece together the timeline of events. The ED's questioning of Jayaram represents a crucial step in determining whether any illicit activities occurred during the temple renovation processes.
As the probe advances, devotees and the public await further developments, hoping for transparency and justice in a matter that touches upon both religious sanctity and legal accountability.
