Thu Nov 20 08:42:23 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text and a rewritten news article based on it:

Summary:

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Kerala is questioning former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president A. Padmakumar regarding the theft of gold-plated copper panels from the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple. The questioning is taking place at an undisclosed location in Thiruvananthapuram and may lead to his arrest. This follows the arrest and remand of former TDB commissioner N. Vasu in the same case. The SIT suspects financial links between Padmakumar and another accused, Unnikrishnan Potti, and believes that manipulation of official records occurred with Padmakumar’s involvement. Evidence against Padmakumar has been accumulating from previous arrests, delaying his own.

News Article:

Former Temple Board President Questioned in Sabarimala Gold Theft Investigation

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – November 20, 2025 – A. Padmakumar, former president of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), is currently being questioned by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) regarding the theft of gold-plated copper panels from the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple. The interrogation, led by SIT head S. Sasidharan, is taking place at an undisclosed location in Thiruvananthapuram.

Sources indicate that Padmakumar arrived for questioning earlier today after being instructed to come to the state capital. While authorities have not officially confirmed details of the interrogation, there is speculation that Padmakumar may be arrested following the questioning.

The move comes shortly after the arrest of former TDB commissioner N. Vasu, who has been remanded in SIT custody until 4:00 PM today. Investigators are reportedly considering questioning Padmakumar and Vasu together.

The SIT has uncovered potential financial connections between Padmakumar and Unnikrishnan Potti, another suspect implicated in the gold theft. According to sources, the arrest of Padmakumar was delayed as the SIT gathered further evidence linking him to the crime.

Statements from previously arrested individuals, including former TDB administrative officer Murari Babu and N. Vasu, have also implicated Padmakumar. The SIT suspects that manipulation of Sabarimala’s official records occurred with Padmakumar’s knowledge and involvement and is scrutinizing his financial transactions. The investigation is ongoing.

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