Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has launched a sharp political offensive, demanding the Congress party provide a clear explanation regarding a meeting between an accused in the high-profile Sabarimala gold smuggling case and senior All India Congress Committee (AICC) leader Sonia Gandhi. The CM's remarks have intensified the political row in the state.
The Core Allegation and Political Challenge
In a statement that has stirred the political waters, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reiterated his demand for transparency from the principal opposition party. He squarely asked the Congress to clarify the circumstances under which an individual implicated in the sensational Sabarimala gold smuggling case managed to secure a meeting with Sonia Gandhi, one of the most prominent figures in the national opposition.
The Chief Minister's challenge, made on January 1, 2026, focuses on the nature and purpose of this encounter. He emphasized that the public has a right to know how an accused in such a serious legal matter gained access to the senior leadership of the Indian National Congress. This move is seen as a counter to the Congress's persistent attacks on the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) government over the gold smuggling case.
Context of the Sabarimala Gold Smuggling Case
The case, which had sent shockwaves through Kerala, involves the smuggling of gold through the diplomatic channel linked to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Consulate in Thiruvananthapuram. The smuggling came to light in July 2020, leading to a massive investigation by multiple central agencies, including the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
The scandal had significant political ramifications, with the opposition, led by the Congress and the BJP, targeting the Vijayan government, alleging links between the accused and individuals within the Chief Minister's office. The latest salvo from Pinarayi Vijayan turns the spotlight back onto the Congress, attempting to shift the narrative by questioning their association with a key accused.
Political Repercussions and Next Steps
This development is expected to escalate the war of words between the Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led government and the Congress in Kerala. The CM's direct question puts the Congress leadership in a tight spot, forcing them to either confirm the meeting and explain its context or deny it outright.
The timing of the statement is also crucial, as it keeps the politically sensitive gold smuggling case in public discourse. Analysts suggest this is a strategic move by the LDF to deflect opposition criticism and portray the Congress as being inconsistent in its stand against corruption. The ball is now in the Congress's court to issue a detailed response to the Chief Minister's pointed query.
As of now, the Congress party has not issued an official reaction to Pinarayi Vijayan's latest allegations. The coming days will likely see heightened political activity and clarifications from both sides as this new chapter in Kerala's intense political rivalry unfolds.
