Kerala’s political waters are churning with fresh accusations as BJP targets the CPI(M)-Congress axis in the multimillion-rupee Sabarimala gold disappearance saga. What began as a temple inventory glitch has snowballed into a statewide uproar, questioning the integrity of those sworn to protect sacred assets.
At the heart of the storm is BJP state president K Surendran’s explosive claim: the theft is a joint LDF-opposition plot to siphon temple wealth. ‘Their alliance thrives on such betrayals,’ he asserted, urging Governor intervention for a neutral inquiry. BJP has submitted a memorandum detailing security breaches and record tampering.
The Travancore Devaswom Board, overseeing Sabarimala, confirmed the loss of gold items gifted during peak mandala seasons. Pilgrims’ outrage is palpable, with social media ablaze and temple entry points witnessing dharnas. Historical parallels to past temple fund mismanagements under Left rule are being drawn by critics.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan ordered an SIT amid mounting pressure, vowing to blacklist errant officials. But BJP counters that internal probes are futile when the ‘real bosses’ pull strings. Congress’s reticence has raised eyebrows, with BJP alleging backchannel deals to mute criticism.
Eyewitness accounts describe unusual activity near the strongroom weeks before discovery. Police have detained minor suspects, but no major breakthroughs yet. Devotee groups demand video evidence release and devotee representation in oversight committees.
As forensic experts delve deeper, the episode underscores Sabarimala’s precarious position amid political crossfire. BJP’s narrative of a ‘secular loot’ resonates with conservative voters, potentially fracturing opposition unity. With monsoon season approaching, restoring faith in the shrine’s management is paramount. The gold may be gone, but the quest for accountability endures.