No criminal case and no evidence; High Court orders disciplinary action in Sabarimala ghee irregularity

KOCHI: The High Court granted permission to exempt the accused—including Devaswom officials—from criminal proceedings in the case concerning irregularities involving Aadiyashishta ghee (ghee remaining after the ritualistic anointing of the deity) at Sabarimala. This decision follows a report by the Vigilance investigation team stating that there was no evidence of a conspiracy to deliberately misappropriate funds.

However, a Division Bench Comprising Justice V. Raja Vijayaraghavan and Justice K.V. Jayakumar directed the Devaswom Board to consider initiating departmental disciplinary proceedings against the accused and to recover the financial loss incurred.

43 individuals were named as accused. The audit wing had found that a loss of Rs 17,14,460 was incurred due to the gross negligence and lack of supervision by officials at various stages, ranging from the production to the sale of ghee packets.

The High Court directed the Devaswom Board to seriously consider appointing professionals on a contract basis to streamline administration at Sabarimala. While seniority is valued for appointments to key positions, there is also a need for individuals well-versed in modern management practices. The Board should also consider providing specialised training to senior officials from institutions like the IIMs. The Devaswom Bench ordered the submission of a new action plan incorporating the court's directives within three weeks. The matter will be considered again on October 23.