Sun Jan 25 07:37:13 UTC 2026: # Congress in Crisis: Sabarimala Gold Theft Scandal Deepens Political Divide in Kerala

The Story:
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] has accused the Congress party of a hasty retreat in the Sabarimala gold theft scandal after photos surfaced showing Sonia Gandhi with the prime suspects. CPI(M) State Secretary M.V. Govindan stated that Rahul Gandhi reprimanded the Kerala Congress leadership for involving Ms. Gandhi in the controversy. The CPI(M) alleges the Congress-appointed Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) facilitated the theft, claiming the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe revealed the TDB allowed Unnikrishnan Potti, a key suspect, to loot the temple in conjunction with the chief priest.

Key Points:

  • Photos showing Sonia Gandhi with the main suspects, Unnikrishnan Potti, triggered the scandal.
  • M.V. Govindan claims Rahul Gandhi rebuked the Kerala Congress leadership for dragging Sonia Gandhi into the affair.
  • The CPI(M) alleges the Congress-appointed Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) enabled the gold theft.
  • The SIT allegedly seized the stolen gold idol from the tantri’s home.
  • The CPI(M) asserts Congress’s attempt to weaponize the scandal against the LDF government backfired.
  • The CPI(M) contends that there is no anti-incumbency sentiment.

Critical Analysis:
The provided historical context doesn’t directly relate to the Sabarimala gold theft scandal. Therefore, an in-depth analysis of the events’ drivers and strategic depth is not appropriate.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Sabarimala gold theft scandal has become a major political battleground between the CPI(M) and Congress in Kerala.
  • The emergence of photos linking Sonia Gandhi to the suspects significantly escalated the controversy.
  • The CPI(M) is using the scandal to discredit the Congress party and portray them as complicit in corruption.
  • The Congress is on the defensive, attempting to limit the damage to their reputation.
  • The upcoming Assembly elections will likely be heavily influenced by the ongoing controversy and its impact on public perception.

Impact Analysis:
The Sabarimala gold theft scandal could have long-term implications for the political landscape of Kerala. The accusations of corruption could damage the credibility of both the Congress and the CPI(M). The outcome of the Assembly elections will be a key indicator of how voters perceive the scandal and which party has successfully framed the narrative. Furthermore, it could influence the dynamics of coalition politics in Kerala and potentially affect the balance of power in the state.

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