SIT Seeks Cancellation Of Bail For Tantri Rajeevar In Dwarapalaka And Kattilappali Cases
SIT asks Kerala HC to cancel tantri’s bail in Sabarimala gold theft, citing his key role in conspiracy.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Tuesday approached the Kerala High Court seeking cancellation of bail granted to tantri Kantarar Rajeevar in the second case linked to the alleged Sabarimala gold theft, intensifying scrutiny over the high-profile investigation. The court has decided to hear both petitions together, including an earlier appeal in the Dwarapalaka plank case.
The first appeal concerns the Dwarapalaka plank case, where bail was granted on the 41st day of Rajeevar’s custody. The SIT has challenged the lower court’s decision, arguing that crucial evidence was not properly considered before concluding there was no material to deny bail. Investigators claim the tantri played a central role in the alleged conspiracy, rather than being a peripheral figure.
According to the SIT, substantial digital and testimonial evidence links Rajeevar to the prime accused, Unnikrishnan Potti. His familiarity with procedures for handling and repairing sacred objects at Sabarimala suggests deeper involvement, particularly in facilitating the movement and maintenance of temple valuables. The agency maintains these actions are part of a broader criminal conspiracy.
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The SIT has also filed a fresh plea in the related Kattilappali case, seeking cancellation of bail in that matter, signaling a consolidated legal strategy for interconnected offences. The agency contends that the lower court overlooked key aspects of the investigation, including coordination among the accused, and urged the High Court to review the evidence comprehensively and revoke bail given the gravity of the allegations.
So far, the SIT’s two charge sheets have named 13 accused, of whom 10 have been granted bail. Legal experts note that the High Court’s forthcoming decision will be a pivotal development in the ongoing probe, potentially affecting the detention of key figures in the case.
The Sabarimala gold theft case has also become a significant point of debate in the ongoing Kerala Assembly election campaign. Both the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) have used the case to criticize the CPI(M)-led Left Front, highlighting its impact beyond law enforcement into the state’s political discourse.
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