CPM Alleges Massive Corruption in Sabarimala Flag Mast Installation
In a significant political development, CPM state secretary M V Govindan has leveled serious allegations of large-scale irregularities and misappropriation during the installation of the new flag mast at the Sabarimala temple in 2017. Speaking to reporters in Malappuram on Tuesday, Govindan claimed that the project, executed when the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) was under a UDF-appointed administration, involved widespread collection of cash and gold without proper documentation.
Allegations of Unaccounted Collections
Govindan asserted that substantial amounts of money were collected for the flag mast work without issuing receipts, despite the project being sponsored by an Andhra Pradesh–based firm. "The high court has now ordered a VACB inquiry, which confirms that there was large-scale theft in connection with the installation of the new flag mast at Sabarimala," he stated. He further claimed that cash running into crores of rupees and nearly 10 kilograms of gold were collected, but the High Court has observed that there are no proper records of these collections.
Political Accountability and Demands
The CPM leader emphasized that the UDF government-appointed TDB members bear primary responsibility for the project. He demanded that the vigilance and anti-corruption bureau (VACB) probe should bring all those involved in the alleged irregularities to justice. Govindan specifically pointed out that the alleged irregularities occurred when the devaswom board was led by Congress leaders Prayar Gopalakrishnan and Ajay Tharayil.
Additionally, Govindan raised concerns about the vajivahanam (ritual vehicle) mounted atop the replaced flag mast, arguing that it should not have been handed over to the tanthri (chief priest) and ought to have remained in the custody of TDB.
Opposition Counterclaims
Meanwhile, opposition leader V D Satheesan offered a contrasting perspective during a press interaction in Wayanad. He noted that the High Court had earlier appreciated the replacement of the flag mast at Sabarimala. Satheesan said that it was in the presence of the high court-appointed advocate commissioner that the works were carried out and the high court had commended the advocate commissioner and the works carried out at the Sabarimala temple.
Satheesan also alleged political bias in the investigation, claiming that there were agents of the CPM and the Chief Minister's office in the Special Investigation Team (SIT). He highlighted that while SIT's questioning of former devaswom minister Kadakampally Surendran was kept under wraps for four days, the media were promptly informed about the recording of statements from UDF convenor Adoor Prakash.
The allegations have sparked a heated political debate, with calls for transparency and accountability in the handling of temple funds and projects. The VACB inquiry ordered by the High Court is expected to scrutinize the financial transactions and documentation related to the flag mast installation, potentially uncovering further details in this contentious issue.
