Sabarimala chief priest Kandararu Rajeevaru arrested in temple gold theft case

Sabarimala chief priest Kandararu Rajeevaru arrested in temple gold theft case

The chief priest (Tantri) of the Sabarimala Temple, Kandararu Rajeevaru, has been arrested by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in connection with a case related to the theft of gold from the temple premises.

The development comes days after the disappearance of gold ornaments from the temple campus came to light, prompting authorities to launch a detailed probe into the matter. As part of the investigation, Rajeevaru was taken into custody for questioning.

According to a report by news agency PTI, citing sources, the Tantri was questioned at an undisclosed location during the morning hours. He was later taken to the SIT office in the afternoon, where his arrest was formally recorded.

Investigators said the arrest was based on statements given by the prime accused, Unnikrishnan Potty, and former Travancore Devaswom Board president Padmakumar. The SIT has alleged that Rajeevaru maintained close ties with Potty.

As per the findings of the investigation team, Rajeevaru had recommended the replating of the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) plates and the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) doorframe plates at the temple. He had also been questioned earlier during the course of the probe.

Further investigation into the case is currently underway.