Sabarimala Gold Heist Case: Former TDB President N Vasu Secures Bail
In a significant development in the high-profile Sabarimala gold heist investigation, former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president N Vasu has been granted bail by the court. The decision, delivered on February 11, 2026, has immediately intensified the political controversy surrounding the case, with opposition parties alleging that the probe is being deliberately undermined.
Bail Decision Ignites Allegations of Political Interference
The granting of bail to N Vasu is expected to further aggravate longstanding accusations from the Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that the investigation into the Sabarimala temple gold theft is being sabotaged. Both parties have consistently claimed that Vasu's political affiliations have shielded him from rigorous scrutiny.
Vasu is a known member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and previously served as the additional private secretary to a CPM minister. This connection has been central to opposition claims of bias and procedural manipulation in the case, which involves the alleged theft of gold offerings from the sacred Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala.
Background of the Case and Political Ramifications
The Sabarimala gold heist case has been a focal point of political tension in Kerala for months. The Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the temple, has faced severe criticism over security lapses that led to the theft. N Vasu's tenure as TDB president during the period under investigation has placed him under particular scrutiny.
With his bail approval, the Congress and BJP are likely to escalate their demands for a more transparent and impartial inquiry. They argue that Vasu's CPM links have resulted in a diluted investigation, potentially compromising justice in a matter of significant public and religious importance.
The case continues to unfold, with legal proceedings expected to advance in the coming weeks. The bail decision marks a pivotal moment, ensuring that the political debate over the integrity of the probe will remain at the forefront of Kerala's news cycle.
