Sabarimala Aadiya Shishtam Ghee: Indications of fraud worth crores

SABARIMALA: An inspection conducted in connection with the sale of "Aadiya Shishtam Ghee" in Sabarimala has revealed evidence of fraud worth crores. This is the second day of inspection conducted by the special team of Vigilance that reached Sannidhanam on the instructions of the High Court. "Aadiya Shishtam Ghee" is the consecrated ghee left over after the Neyyabhishekam.

Several documents were seized during the inspection conducted at four Neyyabhishekam counters and offices in Sannidhanam. The daily figures of ghee sales were not maintained. The Vigilance team also questioned the ghee packing contractor in this regard. During the inspection conducted by the Devaswom Vigilance in Sannidhanam, it was found that the money for the sale of 13,679 packets of Aadiya Shishtam Ghee had not been deposited in the board's account. The detailed inspection conducted thereafter revealed irregularities worth Rs 36,24,000 and the Sabarimala Special Commissioner submitted a report to the High Court. Subsequently, the High Court entrusted the special team of the State Vigilance led by SP Mahesh Kumar with the task of further investigation. Ghee worth 2.30 crores was sold during this pilgrimage season.