Adoor Prakash Addresses Controversy Over Association with Sabarimala Gold Scam Accused
In a recent development from Thiruvananthapuram, UDF convenor Adoor Prakash has publicly addressed his connection with Unnikrishnan Potti, the primary accused in the high-profile Sabarimala gold scam. Prakash emphasized that he only became aware of Potti after assuming his role as the Member of Parliament from Attingal. The clarification comes in response to circulating photographs that depict Prakash alongside Potti and other individuals, sparking widespread speculation and debate.
Prakash Details Initial Meeting and Subsequent Interactions
Prakash explained that his initial encounter with Potti was related to an annadanam (a charitable food offering), during which Potti approached him for assistance. He acknowledged visiting both Potti's residence and his sister's home, accompanied by KPCC general secretary Ramani P Nair. However, Prakash firmly stated that these visits occurred strictly after his election as an MP and were not indicative of any longstanding relationship. He stressed that at the time of these meetings, he had no knowledge of Potti's alleged involvement in the fraudulent activities linked to the Sabarimala gold case.
Gifts and Invitations: Prakash's Explanation
Regarding the gifts he received, Prakash disclosed that Potti presented him with dates, which he promptly distributed among his associates. He asserted that this gesture was unrelated to any illicit activities and was merely a customary offering. Additionally, Prakash mentioned receiving an envelope containing an invitation to a ceremony for Potti's sister's daughter, which motivated his visit to their family home. He admitted, however, that he could not recall the specific details of the event, adding a layer of ambiguity to the narrative.
Denials and Allegations of Paid Witnesses
Prakash categorically denied facilitating Potti's access to senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, a claim that has surfaced in connection with the controversy. He also expressed unfamiliarity with other individuals seen in the photos, such as Ramesh Babu, suggesting they might be acquaintances of Potti. In a pointed remark, Prakash labeled a neighbour of Potti, who alleged he was a frequent visitor, as a potential paid witness, implying possible ulterior motives behind the accusations.
Emerging Photographic Evidence and Ongoing Scrutiny
The controversy has been fueled by a series of photographs showing Prakash with Potti, including images where he is seen accepting gifts. These photos also feature Ramesh Rao and Ananth Subramaniam, identified as friends of Potti, at an event reportedly held in Bengaluru. While Potti previously hinted at giving gifts to politicians without naming anyone, the visual evidence has intensified public and political scrutiny. Notably, a separate photo of Potti with Sonia Gandhi had earlier stirred controversy, though the UDF has not provided an explanation for that instance. As more images of Prakash with Potti surface, the exact nature of their interactions and the events depicted remains unclear, leaving room for further investigation and debate.
