CPM Suspends Former Devaswom Board Chief in Gold Heist Case
Kottayam: A Padmakumar, former president of the Travancore Devaswom Board and an accused in the Sabarimala gold heist case, has been suspended from the primary membership of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPM. The decision was taken by the CPM Pathanamthitta district secretariat on Monday, and later ratified by the district committee. The suspension period has not been specified.
Padmakumar, a district committee member, faced the action amid growing public scrutiny. CPM central committee member T M Thomas Isaac and MLA Saji Cherian attended the meeting where the suspension was discussed. While some expected a stronger punishment such as dismissal, the party adopted a softer stance due to fears that Padmakumar could level serious allegations against the top leadership if pushed too far. Reports indicate that Padmakumar was writing an autobiography containing disclosures that could embarrass the CPM.
Background of the Case
Padmakumar was arrested on November 20, 2025, as the eighth accused in the Sabarimala gold heist case. The special investigation team (SIT) established that the crime was committed with his knowledge. He spent 90 days in judicial custody and later secured default bail along with other accused after the chargesheet was not filed within the stipulated period.
Speaking to the media, T M Thomas Isaac stated that Padmakumar has been suspended from all positions within the party. Further steps will be considered after the SIT submits its chargesheet. The CPM will seek Padmakumar's explanation on the points mentioned in the chargesheet, and if the findings are serious, stringent action will follow. Isaac added that the current suspension is based on public sentiment, and anyone is free to write an autobiography.
Party's Stand on Autobiography
CPM district secretary Raju Abraham clarified that action was not delayed, noting that Padmakumar was earlier asked to stay away from election-related activities. Once the SIT submits the chargesheet, a final decision will be taken. On the autobiography, Abraham said the CPM is not worried about disclosures and even hoped it would become a bestseller. He added that Padmakumar's reported revelations appear to be coming through a friend, and the party will examine them if they emerge with greater clarity.
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