Vigilance Officer Directed to Scrutinize Transactions During Mandala-Makaravilakku Season
The Kerala High Court has taken a significant step towards addressing allegations of financial irregularities among employees at Sannidhanam during the Mandala-Makaravilakku Season 2025-2026. In a suo motu case, the court has instructed the Chief Vigilance and Security Officer of the Travancore Devaswom Board to conduct a thorough investigation into the suspected financial malpractices. The directive comes after secret information prompted a discreet enquiry, revealing suspicious remittances involving substantial sums of money.
A report by the Special Commissioner highlighted that over Rs. 14 lakh was transferred via money orders from the local Post Office within a brief period. The transactions, involving amounts exceeding Rs. 25,000 by five employees, have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the funds. Despite being summoned for an enquiry, the involved employees failed to appear before the competent authority.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the court has ordered an exhaustive investigation to include collecting transactional details from nearby banks, such as the State Bank of India and Dhanlaxmi Bank, along with the Post Offices. The court also emphasized the need to compile a database of all employees on duty during the relevant period to facilitate comprehensive scrutiny of the transactions.
The Travancore Devaswom Board’s Standing Counsel informed the court that a formal complaint will be lodged with the Sannidhanam Police Station to initiate a criminal investigation. The court has set a deadline for a comprehensive report to be submitted within three weeks, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the allegations.
Bottom Line:
Financial malpractices involving employees during Mandala-Makaravilakku Season at Sannidhanam - Direction issued for exhaustive investigation, including scrutiny of transactional and remittance details from banks and postal authorities.
Statutory provision(s): Investigation.
Suo Motu v. State Of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2852588
