Sabarimala – Former Devaswom Official Murari Babu Passes Away Amid Ongoing Probe
Sabarimala – Former Travancore Devaswom Board official Murari Babu, who was among the accused in the widely discussed Sabarimala gold-related case, passed away on Saturday while undergoing treatment for cancer at a private hospital in Kochi. His death comes as investigations linked to the alleged disappearance and handling of temple gold materials remain under legal and administrative scrutiny.
Death After Cancer Treatment
Murari Babu, a native of Perunna in Changanassery, had been receiving medical care after being diagnosed with cancer. He breathed his last at Amrita Hospital, where he had been admitted for treatment. Family members announced that his funeral would take place at his residence in Perunna later on Saturday afternoon.
Linked to Sabarimala Gold Case
The former administrative officer had been under investigation in connection with allegations involving gold-plated panels that were removed from sections of the Sabarimala temple, including door frames and the Dwarapalaka sculptures. Authorities had been examining claims that these materials were not properly accounted for after their removal.
A Special Investigation Team was constituted to look into accusations that valuable gold-plated components from the temple were allegedly diverted or misused. Murari Babu was named as one of the accused during the course of the investigation and was subsequently suspended from service.
Statements During Investigation
During questioning by investigators, Murari Babu reportedly maintained that the classification of certain gold-plated panels as copper items was based on documentation received from the temple’s chief priest. His explanation formed part of the evidence reviewed by authorities handling the case.
Despite the ongoing investigation, no final judicial determination regarding the allegations has yet concluded, and legal proceedings connected to the matter continue.
Career in the Travancore Devaswom Board
Murari Babu’s professional journey began with a brief stint in the police department after joining as a constable in 1994. However, he left before completing his training. A few years later, in 1997, he entered the Travancore Devaswom Board and gradually advanced through various administrative positions.
Over the years, he served at several prominent temples across Kerala, including Ettumanoor, Vaikom and Thirunakkara. His rise within the Devaswom administration brought him into several influential assignments connected with temple management and operations.
Vigilance Inquiries and Allegations
Apart from the Sabarimala case, Murari Babu’s tenure attracted the attention of vigilance authorities on multiple occasions. Investigators had examined allegations that he amassed significant assets during his service despite holding a relatively modest official position.
Authorities had also looked into the construction of an expensive residence on family-owned property in Changanassery as part of financial scrutiny conducted during the investigations.
Other Controversies During Service
Several additional issues surfaced during his years in temple administration. Vigilance agencies had previously examined complaints related to elephant management contracts during major temple festivals, as well as allegations concerning missing gold and silver articles from temple premises.
Questions were also raised regarding the handling of a fire incident at the Ettumanoor temple and the installation of gold-plated ornaments without obtaining necessary approvals from the relevant authorities.
Investigators further alleged that he communicated directly with a private firm regarding gold-plating work connected to the Dwarapalaka sculptures without formally informing the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Investigations Continue
Murari Babu’s death occurs while inquiries and court proceedings related to the Sabarimala gold case remain active. Authorities continue to examine evidence and pursue legal processes connected to the allegations, with the broader investigation still awaiting final resolution.