SIT raids former TDB chief Padmakumar’s residence

The Special Investigation ‘Team (SIT) probing the theft of gold from the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple on Friday conducted a raid at the residence of former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president A Padmakumar in Aranmula. Investigators suspect that the conspiracy behind the gold heist may have been hatched at his residence.

- CORRESPONDENT

Padmakumar, who appeared before the SIT on Thursday morning for questioning, was arrested later that evening after a marathon interrogation session. His arrest marks a significant shift in the political landscape surrounding the case.

Until now, the CPI(M) had distanced itself from the controversy, repeatedly asserting that neither the party nor the state government had any role in the Sabarimala gold theft. However, with the arrest of Padmakumar, a member of the Pathanamthitta district committee, the party's long-held stance of denial faces renewed scrutiny.

The development comes at a crucial time, as the Sabarimala pilgrimage season is underway and local body elections are approaching.

Meanwhile, Former Travancore Devaswom Board President A Padmakumar has been remanded to judicial custody for 14 days by the Kollam Vigilance Court in the Sabarimala gold theft case.