Sabarimala Chief Priest Kandararu Rajeevaru Arrested In Gold Theft Case; BJP Demands CBI Probe

A major controversy has erupted at the Sabarimala shrine, where chief priest Kandararu Rajeevaru has been arrested in connection with a gold theft case involving temple artefacts. The arrest by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) occurred during the temple's annual festival, based on the statement of prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti. The case has triggered a political storm, with the BJP alleging the SIT has limitations and that influential figures are being protected. A party representative stated, 'The devotees feel that so many VIPs, political leaders are not being booked.' The BJP is now demanding a central probe by the CBI and ED to ensure a thorough investigation. Kandararu Rajeevaru has been remanded to 14 days in judicial custody, with the next hearing set for January 19th.