The arrest of N. Vijayakumar, a former Travancore Devaswom Board member, in connection with the Sabarimala gold heist case has created discomfort for the ruling CPI(M) party. Vijayakumar revealed to investigators that he signed crucial documents for gold-plating works under the instructions of “comrade” A. Padmakumar, the former TDB president.
Padmakumar, a key figure in the case and a former CPI(M) MLA, was responsible for major decisions related to the gold plating project, as per Vijayakumar’s statement. Despite not reading the contents, Vijayakumar trusted Padmakumar and signed the papers. He surrendered to the Special Investigation Team to avoid causing embarrassment to the government.
The remand report highlights Vijayakumar’s alleged failure to fulfill his duties and collusion with other accused, resulting in financial losses for the Devaswom Board. Vijayakumar faces charges in both the gold-sheet and Dwarapalaka sculpture cases, indicating a widening investigation scope.
The political ramifications of Vijayakumar’s statement are significant, particularly as the CPI(M) faces criticism for not suspending Padmakumar amid ongoing investigations. The party’s stance on Padmakumar’s case has drawn backlash, given the allegations of financial irregularities and the party’s anti-corruption image.
As the probe continues, the Sabarimala gold heist case poses a dual challenge for the CPI(M) – legal and political, especially with the upcoming Assembly polls.
