Sabarimala gold theft: First accused Unnikrishnan Potty accorded grand reception at Srirampuram Ayyappa Temple

BENGALURU: A major reception was accorded to Unnikrishnan Potty, the first accused in the Sabarimala gold theft case, at a temple in Bengaluru. Potty was given a rousing welcome when he arrived at the Srirampuram Ayyappa Temple. Potty had earlier served as the priest of this temple. A private channel released the visuals of it.

Potty was received with a garland. He arrived at the temple after receiving relaxation in his bail conditions. The 20-day relaxation was granted to enable him to participate in the temple rituals. Meantime, the temple authorities said that the temple had no connection with the reception accorded to him. Potty also refused to respond on the incident.

The reception was organised under the leadership of Ramesh Rao, who had helped Unnikrishnan Potty obtain relaxation in his bail conditions. It was under Rao’s leadership that the frames of the Dwarapalaka idols and the door frames were received from Sabarimala. Potty had sought relaxation in his bail conditions citing various requirements, including performing puja at the residence of Ramesh.