The Congress party has sparked a major controversy in Kerala after appointing advocate K B Pradeep as the special government pleader for the Travancore Devasom Board. Pradeep had previously represented Chennai-based Smart Creations, a key accused in the Sabrimala gold heist case.
Appointment Raises Questions
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the Congress-led government of compromising the integrity of the legal process. The gold heist, which occurred at the Sabrimala temple in 2024, involved the theft of gold offerings worth crores. Smart Creations was alleged to have facilitated the illegal sale of the stolen gold.
Political Fallout
Opposition leaders have demanded the immediate revocation of Pradeep's appointment, arguing that it undermines the state's commitment to justice. The Congress government, however, defended the move, stating that Pradeep was selected based on his legal expertise and that his past clients should not be a disqualification.
Arjun Raghunath reports that the appointment was made without consulting the Devasom Board, leading to accusations of unilateral decision-making. The case is expected to further intensify political battles in the state ahead of local elections.
- The Sabrimala gold heist case remains under investigation, with multiple accused still at large.
- Pradeep's appointment has been challenged in the Kerala High Court by a public interest litigation.
- The Congress party has faced similar controversies in the past over appointments of lawyers with controversial backgrounds.
