Sabarimala gold case: Kerala HC expresses satisfaction with SIT probe

Kochi: Kerala high court on Wednesday expressed satisfaction with the ongoing special investigation team (SIT) probe into the alleged gold heist at the Sabarimala temple.The court further observed that there was no cause for concern regarding the accused obtaining statutory bail after 90 days of arrest, stating that none of the accused would escape and that the investigation would not be affected. A bench of Justices V Raja Vijayaraghavan and K V Jayakumar made these observations while hearing petitions filed by BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar and others, seeking a CBI probe into the alleged gold theft at the Sabarimala temple.The petitioners primarily contended that the public, especially devotees, were unaware of the facts of the ongoing investigation and were therefore deeply concerned. They further argued that this situation would seriously affect the credibility of the SIT. However, the court did not agree with these submissions and observed that the alleged Sabarimala gold theft case is an unusual and highly complex one, which cannot be compared to routine investigations such as murder or assault cases that are typically completed within a short period. The court emphasised that every link in the alleged theft must be carefully examined and connected, and that the case requires a meticulous and scientific investigation.Despite the petitioners' apprehensions regarding the delay in filing the chargesheet, the court orally stated that it was not concerned about the chargesheet not being filed within the stipulated time and stressed that the scientific aspects of the investigation must be completed thoroughly. It added that the ongoing probe by the SIT is the most credible at this stage. The court also noted that competent officers are currently handling the case. The SIT probe is being conducted under the direct supervision of the court, and the bench is fully aware of the progress of the probe, it added.In response to the pleas, director general of prosecution T A Shaji, appearing on behalf of the state govt, submitted that the SIT reports directly to the court and that the govt has no control over the SIT.The court adjourned further hearing in the matter to March 13.