Fri Jan 23 15:17:14 UTC 2026: # Sabarimala Gold Theft Case: Official Granted Bail Amid Investigation Delays

The Story:
Murari Babu, the former administrative officer of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), has been granted bail in both cases related to the Sabarimala gold theft. The Kollam Vigilance Court cited the Special Investigation Team’s (SIT) failure to file a chargesheet within the statutory 90-day period after his arrest. While Babu walks free, prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti remains in custody, though his release is anticipated if the chargesheet in the door frame gold theft case isn’t filed within the next three weeks.

Key Points:

  • Murari Babu granted bail in both Sabarimala gold theft cases on January 23, 2026.
  • Bail was awarded due to the SIT’s failure to file a chargesheet within 92 days of Babu’s arrest.
  • Unnikrishnan Potti, the prime accused, remains in custody, but may also be released if the chargesheet deadline is missed.
  • Babu’s bail conditions include a ₹2 lakh bond with two sureties, restrictions on entering Pathanamthitta, and a ban on media interaction.
  • Babu is accused of falsely recording gold plates as copper, enabling the transfer of gold to Mr. Potti.
  • The remand period for senior Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru has been extended by 14 days. His bail application will be considered on January 28.

Key Takeaways:

  • Delays in filing chargesheets can significantly impact the judicial process, leading to the release of accused individuals.
  • The Sabarimala gold theft case continues to unfold, with multiple individuals implicated and facing legal proceedings.
  • Stringent bail conditions are imposed to prevent the accused from influencing the investigation or tampering with evidence.
  • The investigation’s progress is under scrutiny, with deadlines playing a crucial role in the detention of the accused.

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