Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has made a significant intervention in the ongoing investigation into the high-profile Sabarimala gold theft case. He has written a detailed letter to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by ADGP H Venkatesh, urging them to expand their probe to uncover potential connections between the shrine theft and sophisticated international antique smuggling networks.
Allegations of a Global Black Market Operation
In his communication to the investigators, Chennithala put forth a startling claim. He suggested that the missing gold plates from the sacred hill temple were likely traded on the international black market, fetching an estimated value of around Rs 500 crores. The Congress leader emphasized that this was not an ordinary crime but one with serious international implications, where the arrested individuals were merely accomplices.
Chennithala stated he is prepared to disclose more specific details to the SIT regarding the international mafia elements involved. "If the investigation team is ready, they can collaborate with an individual who has direct knowledge of this operation. Some local businessmen and rackets are also linked to this smuggling," his letter revealed. He stressed that the main organizers behind this antique smuggling ring remain outside the current scope of the investigation.
Insider Information and Official Complicity Claims
The letter is based on what Chennithala describes as credible information from a source with direct knowledge of the smuggling of ancient and sacred items. This individual is reportedly unwilling to speak publicly but is ready to cooperate with the SIT and provide testimony in court.
Chennithala's allegations extend to possible insider involvement. He mentioned that certain high-ranking officials within the Devaswom board maintain close ties with gangs that specialize in stealing temple antiques and selling them abroad for enormous profits. This, he argued, is a critical lead that the investigation must pursue.
Middlemen and the Masterminds
The Congress leader also commented on the current status of the probe. He pointed out that despite an extensive investigation, the missing items from Sabarimala have not been recovered, which in his view points to powerful international connections shielding the culprits. He specifically addressed the role of jeweller Govardhan, who was questioned by the SIT, labeling him as only a middleman.
The real perpetrators, according to Chennithala, are individuals with strong international links and significant financial resources. He called for the SIT to examine the international dimensions of the Sabarimala case thoroughly to bring the main conspirators to justice.
The ball is now in the court of the SIT headed by ADGP H Venkatesh to consider these serious allegations and potentially widen its investigative net to follow the trail of the missing gold beyond national borders.
