Thiruvananthapuram, July 13 (IANS) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the alleged Sabarimala financial irregularities has effectively come to a standstill because of prolonged court monitored proceedings, State Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan has said, while asserting that the Kerala government requires greater administrative freedom to ensure the investigation reaches its logical conclusion.

The SIT has registered two FIRs and arrested over a dozen people, including top officials of Travancore Devasom Board and others.

Following the chargesheet not being filed, all the arrested secured bail.

Muraleedharan on Monday clarified that the government has no intention of confronting the judiciary or undermining its authority.

However, he argued that the executive must be empowered to take decisions, with the courts retaining the authority to intervene wherever the government commits an error.

“The government should have the freedom to act. If there is any mistake on our part, the courts can always correct it,” he said.

Expressing concern over the pace of the investigation, the minister warned that the continued delay in filing a charge sheet could weaken the prosecution’s case.

Unless a chargesheet is submitted and the court insists on expediting the proceedings, there is a greater possibility of the accused escaping punishment, he said.

He also cautioned that prolonged delays increase the likelihood of crucial evidence being destroyed.

Muraleedharan also criticised the Travancore Devaswom Board’s handling of the controversy involving the Thazhamon Thantri, who has come under a cloud of suspicion in connection with the case.

The Thantri had reportedly sought to step down and requested that his son be appointed in his place.

Instead of taking a decision, the Board referred the matter to the court.

The minister described the Board’s stand as inappropriate.

Responding to questions on the recent meeting between Hindu Aikya Vedi leaders and Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, Muraleedharan said anyone is free to meet the Chief Minister.

The minister also sought greater autonomy for the government in matters relating to appointments in the Travancore Devaswom Board, reiterating that judicial oversight should remain a corrective mechanism rather than a substitute for executive decision making.

–IANS

sg/rad