Vigilance Officials Record Statements in Sabarimala Gold Donation Investigation
In a significant development, vigilance officials in Thiruvananthapuram have initiated the process of recording statements from prominent film personalities as part of an ongoing probe into alleged irregularities surrounding the reinstallation of the flag mast, known as the kodimaram, at the revered Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple in 2017. This investigation aims to uncover discrepancies in the handling of gold donations made for the temple's renovation project.
Film Personalities Confirm Gold Donations
According to reliable sources, filmmakers Shaji Kailas and Renji Panicker, along with producer G Suresh Kumar, have confirmed to the vigilance team that they contributed gold for the reinstallation. The three individuals stated that their donations were made in the form of gold coins, and they provided details regarding the quantity they contributed. However, some donors reportedly informed officials that they could not recall the precise weight of their donations, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation.
Statements from More Donors Expected
It has also been learned that actor Mohanlal and Union minister as well as actor Suresh Gopi have informed vigilance authorities of their willingness to provide statements. Officials plan to complete the recording of statements from all 27 individuals identified in devaswom records as having donated gold within the next week. This swift timeline underscores the urgency and importance of the probe.
Expanding the Investigation Scope
Vigilance officials are not limiting their inquiry to the 27 persons listed in devaswom records. They are actively examining whether any other individuals apart from those on the list contributed gold for the reinstallation. To facilitate this, officials are considering issuing a public notice in the media, urging those who donated gold to come forward voluntarily.
By accounting for the quantities disclosed by donors who present evidence, vigilance expects to ascertain the actual total amount of gold received for the reinstallation. This step is crucial for verifying the records and ensuring transparency in the temple's financial dealings.
The investigation highlights ongoing efforts to maintain integrity in religious institutions and public trust in Kerala. As more details emerge, the vigilance department remains committed to a thorough and impartial examination of all aspects related to the gold donations at Sabarimala.
