Sabarimala Gold Scandal: UDF, BJP Demand Devaswom Minister’s Resignation
The political turmoil surrounding the disappearance of gold from Sabarimala’s offering vaults has escalated, with Kerala’s Opposition UDF and BJP intensifying calls for Devaswom Minister K. Radhakrishnan’s removal. The controversy has sparked outrage among devotees and raised serious concerns about temple governance under the Left government.
Missing Gold Sparks Sabarimala Temple Scandal
Reports reveal that approximately 1.5 kg of gold donated by devotees to the Lord Ayyappa temple has vanished from the thidambu (processional idol) over recent years. The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) acknowledged discrepancies during an internal audit but dismissed it as a minor accounting error. Opposition parties, however, allege a deliberate cover-up.
UDF, BJP Ramp Up Pressure for Minister’s Ouster
The Congress-led UDF and BJP have launched fierce attacks on the CPI(M)-led LDF government, accusing it of failing to safeguard the temple’s sanctity.
- VD Satheesan (Leader of Opposition) demanded a high-level probe, calling the issue an “insult to devotees.”
- BJP State President K. Surendran accused the government of “looting Sabarimala” and threatened protests if the minister isn’t sacked.
Government’s Response: Denial & Damage Control
Devaswom Minister Radhakrishnan dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, attributing the gold shortage to wear and tear from rituals. The government announced a special audit, but critics label it a stall tactic.
Devotees Outraged, Demand Accountability
The scandal has angered devotees, with social media trends like #SackDevaswomMinister gaining traction. A petitioner in the Kerala High Court questioned, “If Sabarimala isn’t safe from corruption, where is faith secure?”
Political Fallout Ahead of Elections
With Lok Sabha polls nearing, the BJP aims to rally Hindu sentiments, while the Congress seeks to position itself as a defender of religious institutions. The LDF government, already under fire, faces a critical decision: retain the minister or risk backlash.
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