Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has launched a scathing attack on the Kerala government, alleging that the special investigation team (SIT) probing the missing gold from Sabarimala temple has failed in its core task. He claimed the investigation was influenced by the chief minister's office, preventing the recovery of the stolen precious metal.
Allegations of Political Interference in SIT
Chennithala stated that the SIT has been unable to answer the fundamental question of where the stolen gold is located. He revealed that clues regarding the theft were provided by a businessman based abroad, suggesting an international angle to the case. The Congress leader insisted that only a proper, unbiased investigation can reveal the full facts of the mysterious disappearance.
He directly accused the Chief Minister's Office of attempting to influence the SIT's activities. To substantiate his claim, Chennithala pointed out the composition of the investigation team. He alleged that two individuals with ties to the police association, who were inclined towards the ruling CPM, were included in the SIT. This, according to him, compromised the probe's independence from the outset.
Call for a Court-Supervised CBI Probe
Given the alleged state-level interference, Chennithala demanded a higher-level investigation. He asserted that only a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry conducted under the supervision of the court can unearth more facts and bring the culprits to justice. This call highlights a deep distrust in the state police's ability to conduct a free and fair probe in this sensitive matter.
Political Jousting Ahead of Elections
Shifting to the broader political landscape, Chennithala expressed confidence in the United Democratic Front (UDF)'s prospects. He claimed the people are convinced the UDF will return to power in the state. Taking a jab at Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, he said, "Pinarayi Vijayan should not engage in theatrics."
He contrasted the UDF's aim to win 100 seats with Vijayan's boast of securing 110 for the Left Democratic Front (LDF). In a sharp remark, Chennithala added, "Now, I fear that the NDA will come with a mission of 210 seats," implying that the rivalry between the two fronts could inadvertently benefit the National Democratic Alliance.
Defending Opposition Leader's Church Visit
Chennithala also defended Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan's recent visit to the Syro Malabar Church headquarters. He clarified that meeting church leaders during a synod is not a mistake and is a standard practice. He noted that both former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and he himself had undertaken similar visits in the past. Chennithala revealed that Satheesan had consulted him before the visit, framing it as a routine political and community engagement rather than a controversial act.
The allegations by the senior Congress leader have intensified the political storm surrounding the Sabarimala gold case, putting the government's handling of the investigation under severe scrutiny. The demand for a CBI probe is likely to become a major point of contention in the coming days.
