Kochi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a summons to popular actor Jayaram in connection with the alleged gold theft case at Sabarimala. The actor has been directed to appear before the agency on Tuesday, February 17.
The ED is seeking clarification regarding Jayaram’s alleged relationship with Unnikrishnan Potty, an accused in the case involving gold irregularities. Previously, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) had also questioned the actor.
Key Details of the Case: The summons follows a report by the Devaswom Vigilance wing, which indicated irregularities in the gold used for the re-installation of the temple’s flagstaff (Kodimaram).
- Missing Gold: A preliminary probe reportedly found a shortage of approximately 30 sovereigns (approx. 233 grams) of gold.
- The Discrepancy: The Devaswom Board had procured 9.16 kg of gold from Customs for the flagstaff plating. Additionally, devotees donated over 412 grams, including 80 grams from a film star and 247 grams from a producer. Records show that while 9.57 kg was available, only 9.34 grams were officially recorded as used, leaving a significant portion unaccounted for without proper documentation.
- Vigilance Probe: The Vigilance report suggests the scale of the irregularity could be higher as the specific quantities of gold donated by 27 other individuals were not recorded.
A special team led by the SP, under the orders of Vigilance Chief Manoj Abraham, is set to investigate the matter further.
