Kerala faced a tumultuous year in 2025, marked by political turbulence, legal landmarks, and maritime issues. The Sabarimala temple gold theft case, involving several kilograms of gold and valuables, took center stage. The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) grappled with setbacks, while significant arrests were made in connection with the case.
The investigation into the gold theft led to the arrest of key figures linked to the temple administration, sparking calls for a broader inquiry. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) made multiple arrests, including high-profile individuals like former Travancore Devaswom Board officials.
In a significant development, the SIT apprehended two crucial suspects, bringing the total arrests to nine. The Kerala High Court’s criticism of delays in the probe prompted swift action. The Sabarimala scandal, alongside economic challenges, influenced the outcome of the local body elections in November.
The political landscape saw the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) clinch victories, with the BJP making historic gains in Thiruvananthapuram. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his daughter faced legal scrutiny over bribery allegations, with courts dismissing calls for further investigations. The judiciary’s focus included high-profile cases like the 2017 actress assault trial in Kochi.
Public health concerns arose with cases of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) in northern Kerala, leading to fatalities. Maritime safety incidents, including ship accidents, raised alarms. Tragic events like the mob lynching of a migrant worker and legal issues involving a rapper added to the year’s challenges.
The year ended with the loss of prominent figures like former Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan and renowned artists, signaling a period of transition for Kerala.
