In a major development that has sent shockwaves through Kerala's religious circles, a former official of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has been arrested in connection with the sensational Sabarimala temple gold theft case. The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the multi-crore temple gold plating scam that has rocked the famous pilgrimage center.
Special Investigation Team Makes Key Arrest
The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which has been probing the elaborate gold plating scandal, took former TDB deputy secretary S. Vignesh into custody following mounting evidence of his involvement. The accused was reportedly apprehended from his residence in Thiruvananthapuram, bringing the temple corruption case to a dramatic turn.
The Elaborate Gold Plating Scam Uncovered
Investigators have revealed that the scam involved systematic financial irregularities during the gold plating work conducted at the sanctum sanctorum of the revered Sabarimala temple. The fraudulent activities allegedly caused massive financial losses to the temple treasury, with initial estimates running into crores of rupees.
Key aspects of the investigation include:
- Financial misappropriation during gold procurement and plating processes
- Alleged manipulation of tender procedures and documentation
- Irregularities in the quality and quantity of gold used for temple work
- Possible involvement of multiple officials and contractors in the scam
Mounting Evidence Leads to Arrest
Police sources indicate that the arrest came after the SIT gathered substantial evidence against the former official, including documentary proof of financial misconduct. The investigation team has been scrutinizing temple records, financial transactions, and tender documents related to the gold plating project that spanned several years.
Public Outrage and Temple Administration Under Scanner
The unfolding scandal has triggered widespread public outrage, with devotees and religious organizations demanding strict action against all those involved in the temple corruption. The case has put the entire temple administration under intense scrutiny, raising serious questions about financial management and transparency in Kerala's prominent religious institutions.
The SIT continues its probe, with indications that more arrests might follow as investigators dig deeper into what appears to be a well-organized network of corruption within the temple administration.
