ED Seeks Kerala High Court Intervention in Sabarimala Gold Theft Probe
Image Source: Internet
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has approached the Kerala High Court, seeking access to documents related to two cases investigated by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in the high-profile Sabarimala gold theft incident. The ED believes that the accused's modus operandi in these cases could be linked to the diversion of temple property and the conversion of proceeds for personal gain, potentially constituting proceeds of crime under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). As the sole authority for investigating money laundering activities, the ED has a duty to initiate an inquiry under the PMLA to trace and attach the proceeds of crime. The agency had previously requested certified copies of the FIRs and First Information Statements (FISs) from the Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Ranni, Pathanamthitta, but was denied due to the sensitive nature of the case. However, the ED argues that the Magistrate misinterpreted the Kerala High Court's previous order, which directed the FIRs registered by the Crime Branch to be handed over to the SIT. The ED claims that there is no prohibition on another investigation agency probing offences under special legislation. The High Court will hear the ED's petition on Monday. Meanwhile, former Travancore Devaswom Board secretary S Jayashree has also approached the High Court seeking anticipatory bail in the case related to the loss of gold from the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols. The High Court will consider her petition on Tuesday.
