The special investigation team (SIT) formed by the Kerala High Court to probe the high-profile Sabarimala gold smuggling case is facing a severe credibility crisis. The opposition Congress has levelled serious allegations of political interference, claiming the appointment of two inspectors with links to the ruling CPM leadership has undermined the probe's integrity.
Opposition Alleges Sabotage of Investigation
In a strongly-worded statement issued on Wednesday, Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan alleged that the SIT's credibility has been compromised. He pointed to the appointment of two inspectors with connections to the CPM leadership to the crucial team. Satheesan claimed that the two names were presented before the High Court and accepted, but their nominations were orchestrated by senior IPS officers and a high-ranking CPM official from the crime branch headquarters.
"This same officer, notorious for filing false cases against Congress leaders while in charge of law and order, is attempting to sabotage the investigation for CPM," Satheesan alleged. He reiterated his recent claims that senior IPS officers are trying to influence the SIT, with the sole aim of weakening it and derailing the investigation into the gold smuggling scandal.
Aim to Protect Real Culprits, Says Congress Leader
Satheesan outlined what he believes is the motive behind this alleged interference. "The aim of this group is to leak SIT's actions to the government and divert the investigation to protect the real culprits," he stated. He accused a section of police officers of actively assisting the government and the CPM in their efforts to derail the case.
He warned that this move is an attempt to undermine even the High Court's intervention. The opposition leader made an urgent appeal, stating, "The High Court must conduct an urgent review and intervene in this matter" to ensure a fair and impartial investigation.
High Court's "Shocking" Observations Echo Concerns
Adding weight to the opposition's allegations, AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal highlighted the Kerala High Court's own serious concerns about the investigation. On Wednesday, Venugopal noted that the court had expressed deep reservations about the probe's progress, terming the observations as shocking.
"Yesterday, the High Court expressed serious concerns about the investigation process in the Sabarimala theft case, which is truly shocking news for all of us," Venugopal said. He quoted the court as stating that the SIT's actions are raising serious doubts. Venugopal emphasized that it is now the SIT's responsibility to act strictly in accordance with the High Court's observations and work to identify all those responsible for the theft at the famous temple.
The convergence of political allegations and judicial skepticism has cast a long shadow over the investigation into the Sabarimala gold scam, raising urgent questions about its future course and integrity.
