Sabarimala Gold Scam: Prime Accused Unnikrishnan Potti Granted Statutory Bail
In a significant development in the high-profile Sabarimala gold scam case, the prime accused, Unnikrishnan Potti, has been granted statutory bail by the Kollam vigilance court. This decision comes after the special investigation team (SIT) failed to file a chargesheet within the mandatory 90-day period following his arrest, as required by law.
Court's Decision and Strict Conditions
The Kollam vigilance court granted bail to Potti on Thursday, imposing a series of stringent conditions to ensure he does not interfere with the ongoing investigation. The court explicitly banned Potti from speaking to the media about the case or any aspect of the investigation. Additionally, he is prohibited from entering Pathanamthitta district, where the Sabarimala temple is located, and is not allowed to leave the state of Kerala without prior permission.
Further conditions require Potti to appear before the crime branch (CB) investigation officer in Thiruvananthapuram every Tuesday and Friday between 10 am and 1 pm. The court also mandated that he execute a bond of Rs 2 lakh, supported by two solvent sureties of the same amount, to secure his release.
Prosecution's Opposition and Court's Rejection
The prosecution strongly opposed the bail plea, arguing that Potti had influenced officials and staff of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to facilitate the illegal transfer of sacred artefacts, including gold from the kattilapadi (door frame) of the Sabarimala hill shrine. The SIT informed the court that the stolen gold has not yet been recovered and expressed concerns that granting bail could adversely impact the investigation.
However, the court rejected these arguments, emphasizing that the failure to file a chargesheet within the stipulated timeframe necessitated the grant of statutory bail under legal provisions. This ruling aligns with the high court's earlier clarification that statutory bail does not hinder the investigation and ensures the accused remain subject to the legal process.
Background and Broader Implications
Potti had previously been granted bail on January 21 in a related case involving dwarapalaka idols. With this latest bail grant, all main accused in the Sabarimala gold scam, including B Murari Babu, S Sreekumar, and Sudheesh Kumar, have now received statutory bail. The case has drawn widespread attention due to its connection to the revered Sabarimala temple and allegations of corruption involving sacred items.
Looking ahead, the enforcement directorate is expected to issue a summons to Potti for questioning after his release, indicating that the investigation continues to expand. Meanwhile, on February 11, the 90-day period will be completed for other accused individuals, such as former TDB president A Padmakumar and former devaswom commissioner N Vasu, potentially leading to similar bail considerations.
This development underscores the complexities of the legal proceedings in the Sabarimala gold scam, highlighting the balance between investigative needs and statutory rights. The case remains a focal point in Kerala's legal and political landscape, with ongoing scrutiny from authorities and the public alike.
