Sabarimala Ghee Misappropriation Case: Part-Time Santhi Approaches Kerala High Court for Anticipatory Bail
In a significant development concerning the alleged misappropriation of devotional offerings at the renowned Sabarimala temple, a part-time santhi has sought legal protection from the Kerala High Court. Jithusooraj S K, a resident of Chathannoor in Kollam district, who served as a part-time santhi during the recent Mandala-Makaravilakku festival season, has filed a petition for anticipatory bail.
Vigilance Case and Allegations
Jithusooraj stands as the 31st accused in a vigilance case that has sent shockwaves through the temple administration. The case centers on serious allegations of misappropriation in the sale of ‘aadiya sishtam ghee’—the sacred ghee offerings made by devotees at Sabarimala. According to the prosecution's detailed account, during the bustling festival season, certain individuals allegedly diverted these devotional offerings for personal gain.
The financial impact of this alleged misconduct is substantial, with the Travancore Devaswom Board reportedly suffering a loss of Rs 22.56 lakh. This board, which manages the temple's affairs, has been grappling with the implications of this case, which touches upon the sanctity of religious offerings and administrative integrity.
Court Proceedings and Government Response
The legal proceedings have seen active judicial engagement. Justice A Badharudeen, presiding over the bench hearing the petition, has taken a measured approach to the matter. The court has specifically sought instructions from the state government regarding Jithusooraj's anticipatory bail plea, indicating the case's sensitivity and potential implications.
The matter has been formally adjourned to February 24, allowing time for the government to present its stance and for further legal arguments to be prepared. This adjournment reflects the court's careful consideration of both the petitioner's rights and the broader investigative needs.
Petitioner's Defense and Claims of Innocence
In his petition, Jithusooraj has mounted a vigorous defense, asserting his complete innocence in the alleged misappropriation. He claims to have had no involvement whatsoever in the criminal activities under investigation. His legal team has argued that the vigilance authorities acted mechanically in including him among the accused.
A key point in his defense is the allegation that he was arrayed as an accused without any prima facie inquiry or role-specific investigation. This, he contends, represents a failure of due process in the investigation. Furthermore, he emphasizes that among the 33 accused individuals, several had themselves raised complaints about the alleged misappropriation, suggesting complexities in the case.
The petitioner has also clarified his limited role within the temple's operations. He maintains that he exercised no control or supervisory authority over the critical processes of procurement, storage, accounting, or distribution of the ‘ghee nivedhyam’. This distinction is central to his argument that his inclusion in the case is unwarranted.
Broader Implications and Temple Administration
This case unfolds against the backdrop of Sabarimala's significance as one of India's most visited pilgrimage sites. The allegations of misappropriation of devotional offerings strike at the heart of temple governance and devotees' trust. The Travancore Devaswom Board, already managing the temple's extensive operations, now faces additional scrutiny regarding its oversight mechanisms.
The legal outcome could have far-reaching consequences for how temple administrations handle devotional offerings and investigate potential irregularities. As the court prepares to reconvene on February 24, all eyes remain on how justice will balance individual rights with the need for thorough investigation in matters of religious significance.
