Former Devaswom Minister and senior CPI(M) legislator Kadakampally Surendran is at the center of the Sabarimala gold theft controversy, facing increasing pressure and dissonance within the Left Front’s narrative. Surendran clarified that his visit to the prime accused’s residence was for a function related to the accused’s father, denying any gifts or favors received.
Thirteen individuals, including top CPI(M) and CPI leaders, are currently in judicial custody in connection with the Sabarimala gold heist. Surendran emphasized that he had no improper relationship with the accused and that the investigation was under High Court supervision. The political heat rose in the Assembly as the gold issue took precedence, with the ruling front and opposition engaging in a war of words.
While the ruling party highlighted a photograph of the accused with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi to deflect attention, Surendran distanced himself from insinuations made by his party colleagues. The differing approaches of the CPI(M) leadership, aggressive inside the Assembly and cautious outside, reveal a strategic split within the ruling front. With the Enforcement Directorate intensifying its probe and elections approaching, Surendran finds himself in a precarious position amidst the escalating controversy.
