Thiruvananthapuram:
Kerala Director General of Police (DGP) Ravada Chandrasekhar on Thursday confirmed that the arrest of Sabarimala Tantri Kandhararu Rajeevar was carried out strictly on the basis of credible evidence and recorded testimonies, dismissing allegations of procedural lapses or external pressure in the case.
Addressing the media, the DGP stated that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) acted only after collecting substantial material proof and corroborative witness statements. “The arrest was not arbitrary. It was based on precise evidence gathered during the investigation. The SIT has been granted complete operational freedom to probe the case,” Chandrasekhar said.
He further clarified that the investigation is proceeding in a systematic and lawful manner, adhering to established legal protocols. The police chief emphasised that no individual, regardless of religious or social stature, is above the law.
Kerala Minister for Law and Cultural Affairs V.N. Vasavan also backed the police action, asserting that the investigation is moving in the right direction. “The government has not interfered in the probe in any manner. The police are acting independently, and the course of the investigation clearly reflects that it is progressing correctly,” the minister said.
The arrest of the Sabarimala Tantri, a highly influential religious figure associated with one of India’s most prominent temples, has sparked intense public and political debate. However, senior police officials reiterated that the case is being treated purely as a legal matter, insulated from religious or political considerations.
Authorities indicated that further steps in the investigation would be guided solely by evidence, and additional actions would be taken if required, in accordance with the law.
