Sabarimala Temple Gold Theft: Accused Unnikrishnan Potty Remanded to Judicial Custody in Kerala

Pathanamthitta: The Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Ranni on Thursday ordered judicial custody for Unnikrishnan Potty, who is identified as the primary accused in the alleged gold theft cases from the revered Sabarimala temple, according to police officials.

Following the conclusion of his custody period, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) presented Potty before the court during the afternoon session.

During the court proceedings, the magistrate inquired if Potty had any grievances against the SIT, to which he responded negatively.

However, Potty informed the court about his ongoing health issues and mentioned that he requires regular medication for various ailments.

Addressing these concerns, the prosecutor assured the court that appropriate arrangements would be implemented to ensure Potty receives comprehensive medical examination and necessary treatment while in jail.

The prosecution additionally noted that Potty has not yet been arrested in connection with another case regarding missing gold from Sabarimala. Subsequently, the court instructed police to present him again on Monday.

Following the hearing, Potty was remanded to judicial custody and transferred to the Special Jail located in Thiruvananthapuram.

He had been in SIT custody related to allegations of gold theft from the gold-coated copper plates of the 'Dwarapalaka idols'.

The second pending case involves missing gold from the door frame of the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) of the temple.

Police officials added that former Sabarimala Administrative Officer B Murari Babu currently remains in SIT custody for a four-day period.