Thu Feb 05 10:11:46 UTC 2026: # Sabarimala Gold Theft Probe Stalled, Congress Alleges CPI(M) Interference

The Story:
The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president, Sunny Joseph, has accused the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] of politically interfering with the investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft case. Speaking to the media on February 5, 2026, Joseph stated that the delay in filing a chargesheet is allowing the accused to exploit legal loopholes and secure bail. He highlighted the “serious and unexplained delay” in determining the quantity of gold stolen and questioned the inaction against those accused in the gold theft case compared to the swift action taken against a Kannur CPI(M) leader.

Key Points:
* Sunny Joseph, KPCC president, alleges CPI(M) interference in the Sabarimala gold theft investigation.
* The delay in filing a chargesheet is enabling the accused to obtain bail.
* There is a reported “serious and unexplained delay” in determining the total amount of stolen gold.
* Joseph contrasts the alleged inaction in this case with the swift action against V. Kunhikrishnan, a Kannur CPI(M) leader.
* Concerns and anxiety are reportedly prevalent among devotees regarding the investigation’s progress.
* The prime accused, Unnikrishnan Potti, was granted statutory bail.

Critical Analysis:
The series of events leading up to this press conference paints a picture of growing political pressure surrounding the Sabarimala gold theft case. The Kerala Assembly disruption, coupled with the BJP State chief’s call for a CBI referral, indicates a multi-party dissatisfaction with the state government’s handling of the investigation. The court granting bail to the prime accused due to the delay in filing the chargesheet has provided ammunition for the opposition parties.

Key Takeaways:
* The Sabarimala gold theft case has become a politically charged issue in Kerala.
* The perceived delay in the investigation is fueling accusations of political interference.
* The granting of bail to the accused due to procedural delays has intensified scrutiny of the investigation.
* The Congress party is leveraging the controversy to criticize the ruling CPI(M).
* Public trust in the investigation’s integrity is potentially eroding.

Impact Analysis:
The ongoing controversy surrounding the Sabarimala gold theft case could have significant long-term implications for Kerala politics. The CPI(M)’s reputation could be damaged if the allegations of political interference prove to be true, potentially impacting future election outcomes. The incident may also lead to increased scrutiny of law enforcement and investigative processes within the state. Furthermore, public confidence in the administration of justice related to religious institutions is at risk, which may necessitate reforms to ensure transparency and accountability.

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