Kandararu Rajeevaru Arrest: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Friday arrested Sabarimala Chief Priest Kandararu Rajeevaru in connection with a serious gold loss case, triggering widespread reactions across Kerala and the religious community. The arrest is seen as a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the alleged disappearance of gold belonging to the revered Sabarimala temple.
The case relates to discrepancies found in the temple’s gold inventory, which includes ornaments and offerings donated by millions of devotees over the years. These valuables are considered sacred and are subject to strict accounting and storage rules. When irregularities were detected during routine checks, authorities ordered a detailed probe to determine whether the missing gold was due to negligence, mismanagement, or deliberate wrongdoing.
Given the sensitivity of the matter, the Kerala government handed the case over to a Special Investigation Team. The SIT conducted an extensive inquiry, examined financial and inventory records, and questioned several temple officials before taking action against the chief priest. Investigators reportedly found enough material to link Kandararu Rajeevaru to key aspects of the case, leading to his arrest.
As the chief priest, Kandararu Rajeevaru held a position of high authority at the temple and was responsible for overseeing rituals and safeguarding valuable offerings. Officials believe his role gave him access to crucial records and temple assets, making his involvement central to the investigation.
The arrest has sent shockwaves through the state, as Sabarimala is one of the most sacred pilgrimage centres in India. Many devotees expressed concern and disappointment, while others welcomed the move, saying that accountability is necessary to preserve the temple’s integrity and public trust.
Kandararu Rajeevaru is expected to be produced before a magistrate as the SIT continues to dig deeper into the case. Investigators have indicated that more people may be questioned or arrested if further evidence emerges. Authorities have also assured that the probe will be conducted in a fair and transparent manner, without favour or pressure.
This is a developing story, and more updates are expected as the investigation progresses.