A political controversy has surged following the arrest of Tantri Kantarar Rajeevaru in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case. The Vijayan government has refuted claims of conspiracy, with Law Minister P Rajeev asserting that the arrest was not politically motivated and was solely based on concrete evidence. The Opposition is now urging for a High Court-monitored investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tantri’s 40-day detention.
The Tantri, in his bail plea, alleged that his arrest was a result of discord within the ruling establishment due to his stance against the entry of women into Sabarimala. Despite this, the Kollam Vigilance Court granted him bail earlier this week, citing a lack of evidence linking him to the theft. Leader of the Opposition V. D. Satheesan is pressing for transparency from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) regarding the tantri’s alleged offense and the rationale behind his arrest.
Amidst mounting pressure, the SIT initially contemplated challenging the bail order in the High Court but has since reconsidered to avoid any perception of targeting the tantri. The Left Democratic Front government is facing increasing political scrutiny to justify both the arrest and the subsequent legal proceedings.
