The new UDF government in Kerala, led by V.D. Satheesan, is facing controversy over the appointment of Advocate K.B. Pradeep as Special Government Pleader for the Devaswom Department in the Kerala High Court. Pradeep had previously represented a company accused in the Sabarimala gold theft case, sparking criticism and concerns about conflicts of interest. The government’s creation of a new post specifically for Pradeep has raised further questions about the appointment.
Critics have questioned the necessity of appointing Pradeep, given his ties to the company involved in the high-profile case. Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan defended the decision, stating that appointing someone familiar with the accused’s weaknesses could be beneficial. However, this defense has faced backlash for potentially compromising the impartiality of the government’s representation.
The controversy deepened as opposition parties and former ministers criticized the government’s move, alleging that it undermines the seriousness of the ongoing investigation into the Sabarimala temple gold theft. Smart Creations, the company linked to the theft, has been under scrutiny for its alleged involvement in the misappropriation of gold from the temple. The government’s decision to appoint Pradeep has raised concerns about the integrity of the investigation and calls for a review of the appointment.
