THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a blistering attack, the Kerala BJP has pointed fingers at the CPI(M)-Congress alliance, alleging their complicity in the shocking Sabarimala gold theft case. The controversy erupted after reports surfaced of missing gold ornaments from the revered temple’s sanctum sanctorum, sparking outrage among devotees and political circles alike.
BJP state president K Surendran led the charge, claiming that the incident is no mere robbery but a deep-rooted conspiracy hatched by the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and its covert ally, the Congress. ‘This is the unholy nexus at work, looting the faith of millions,’ Surendran thundered at a press conference here today. He demanded a thorough probe by a central agency, dismissing the state police investigation as a sham.
The Sabarimala temple, a global pilgrimage site drawing lakhs of Ayyappa devotees annually, has long been a flashpoint in Kerala politics. The gold theft, involving ornaments worth crores donated by pilgrims over decades, was discovered during routine inventory checks. Initial probes revealed discrepancies in records maintained by temple authorities, fueling suspicions of insider involvement.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s government has swung into action, forming a special investigation team (SIT). However, BJP leaders argue that the SIT is riddled with political biases, given the LDF’s control over the police. ‘Congress, which pretends to be in opposition, is shielding the culprits to protect their vote-bank politics,’ Surendran added, referencing alleged past instances of collusion.
The accusation has ignited a firestorm. CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan hit back, calling it ‘desperate BJP propaganda’ ahead of local body polls. Congress leaders echoed similar sentiments, urging the BJP to focus on facts rather than fiction. Meanwhile, devotees have launched protests at the temple base camp, demanding transparency and punishment for the guilty.
As the probe unfolds, the political temperature in Kerala is soaring. The BJP’s move is seen as a strategic bid to consolidate Hindu votes by invoking the temple’s sanctity. With elections looming, this gold heist could redefine alliances and reshape the state’s polarized landscape. Authorities assure that every grain of gold will be traced, but trust remains the biggest casualty.