The Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Kerala High Court strongly objected to the bail plea of Sabarimala temple tantri Kantarar Rajeevar before the Kollam Vigilance Court. The SIT highlighted the tantri’s significant wealth accumulation, including bank deposits of Rs 2.05 crore and Rs 62 lakh held by his wife, as a reason for denying bail. They emphasized concerns about the source of income due to the substantial assets.
The SIT argued that Rajeevar’s association with the prime accused in the Sabarimala gold heist case raised serious questions about his involvement. They pointed out that as a temple official under the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), Rajeevar fell under the Prevention of Corruption Act, indicating misuse of a public position. The prosecution stressed the gravity of the alleged offenses and the need for continued custodial scrutiny.
Highlighting a potential conspiracy, the SIT revealed a long-standing relationship between Rajeevar and the prime accused dating back to 2004. They expressed concerns that granting bail could impede the ongoing probe, particularly in tracing money trails and identifying additional beneficiaries. The Vigilance Court reserved its decision on the bail plea, scheduling further proceedings for February 18.
The investigation into the Sabarimala gold heist has resulted in the arrest of 13 individuals, with four securing bail. The SIT hinted at possible further arrests as the inquiry progresses. In a separate development, the Supreme Court rejected the bail plea of jeweller Govardhan, another accused in the case. Additionally, the Kollam Vigilance Court is expected to rule soon on the bail plea of N. Vasu, a senior CPI-M leader and former President of TDB, whose involvement is under scrutiny.
