The Kerala Assembly faced disruptions as the Opposition intensified its criticism of the CPI(M)-led government regarding the Sabarimala gold theft issue. The Leader of the Opposition, V.D. Satheesan, emphasized that ministerial resignations were necessary, not more debates, following shocking revelations by the High Court. The Opposition’s key demands included the resignation of Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan and an end to alleged interference in the Special Investigation Team’s work by the Chief Minister’s Office.
The court highlighted that despite knowing about the 2019 gold theft case involving Unnikrishnan Potti, the Devaswom Board allowed him to handle gold-plating work again, violating court orders. Additionally, the court noted urgent summoning of Potti in 2024 with Board approval for the work, raising concerns. Satheesan pointed out the court’s criticism of rushed actions in 2025 at Sabarimala, blaming both Vasavan and the former Board president for the situation. The demand for Vasavan’s resignation was based on these court observations, according to the Opposition.
Satheesan criticized ministers M.B. Rajesh and Sivankutty for diverting attention by involving Sonia Gandhi in the issue during Assembly discussions. He questioned the relevance of Potti’s photos with various leaders, stressing that the real concern was the alleged protection of involved individuals by the Chief Minister. Satheesan also alleged the involvement of former Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran in the case, claiming efforts to prevent his arrest due to potential revelations.
