ED freezes ₹1.3-crore assets of Unnikrishnan Potti, prime accused in Sabarimala gold theft case
Theft of sacred artifacts and misrepresentation of evidence raises concerns about institutional failure.
The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) froze eight immovable properties and seized a 100-gram gold bar belonging to Unnikrishnan Potti, prime suspect in the Sabarimala gold theft case, valued at approximately ₹1.3 crore. The investigation revealed that sacred gold-clad artifacts were misrepresented as "copper plates" and illegally removed from the temple premises between 2019 and 2025. The ED initiated the probe based on two FIRs filed by the High Court-appointed Special Investigation Team, which uncovered a criminal conspiracy involving senior officials of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and others. The investigation also revealed potential financial irregularities related to temple offerings and rituals.
5 FEB 2026
— The Hindu
The BJP Kerala president demanded the Chief Minister refer the Sabarimala gold theft case to the CBI, citing concerns about the investigation's independence.
— The Hindu
KPCC president Sunny Joseph alleges that the CPI(M) is hindering the Sabarimala gold theft investigation, citing its influence on the process and bail granted to the accused.
— The Hindu
The Kerala Assembly adjourned early on February 5th due to protests from the Congress-led UDF over the Sabarimala gold theft case.
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