The chief priest (Tantri) of the Sabarimala Temple, Kandararu Rajeevaru, has been taken into custody by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) for questioning in connection with a case involving the theft of gold from the temple. This action was taken during an investigation into the disappearance of valuable gold ornaments from the temple campus.

A few days ago, a case of gold theft inside the temple came to light, following which an investigation was initiated.

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

The arrest was made on the basis of statements provided by prime accused Unnikrishnan Potty and former Travancore Devaswom Board president Padmakumar.

According to SIT findings, Rajeevaru had close associations with Potty and had recommended the replating of the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) plates and the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) doorframe plates at the temple, reported the outlet.

Rajeevaru had also been questioned earlier as part of the investigation.

Source: News18