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CPM State Secretary Addresses Sabarimala Gold Theft, Party Stand on Criminal Candidacy
Kannur: The CPI(M) State Secretary M.V. Govindan addressed the ongoing investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft case and the party’s stance on fielding candidates with criminal convictions.
Govindan asserted that the party will not protect anyone involved in the gold theft, emphasizing that even a speck of gold belonging to Lord Ayyappan should not be lost. He criticized the previous Congress government for failing to recover lost temple ornaments during their tenure. “Those responsible, regardless of who they are, must be brought before the law,” he stated. The party will take action against those involved, but Govindan clarified that any actions taken would be to ensure justice, not to save face.
He also drew a distinction between the gold theft case and criticism leveled against Rahul Gandhi, suggesting the situations were not comparable.
Regarding the candidacy of individuals with criminal convictions, Govindan defended the party’s position, stating that those who have been convicted have the right to approach higher courts. He stated that these individuals are part of the party and reflect its diverse composition.
High Court Denies Bail to Key Accused in Sabarimala Gold Theft Case
Meanwhile, the Kerala High Court rejected the anticipatory bail petitions of former Devaswom Secretary Jayasree and former Administrative Officer S. Sreekumar, directing them to surrender to the investigating officers. The court observed a larger conspiracy behind the theft of precious items from the sanctum sanctorum and hinted at the involvement of influential figures connected to Unnikrishnan Potti. The court emphasized the necessity of custodial interrogation.
In related developments, the remand period for K.S. Baiju, the former Commissioner for Devaswom, who is also an accused in the case, has been extended for 14 days. His bail plea was previously rejected.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has sought documents from the Kollam Vigilance Court as part of its money laundering investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft. The ED has requested copies of the FIR, statements, and other related documents. The court will consider the ED’s plea on December 10th.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) argued that granting bail to Jayasree and Sreekumar would impede the investigation and that their custodial interrogation was necessary, a point that the High Court upheld. Former Devaswom President N. Vasu’s remand period will end today and will be presented to the Kollam Vigilance Court.
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