The two cases relate to gold found missing from the copper plate coverings on the Dwarapalaka idols and the door frames of the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) at the Sabarimala temple.

According to the prosecution, due to alleged irregularities by officials of the Travancore Devaswom Board, Potti obtained permission to sponsor repair works of these temple structures. It is alleged that he misappropriated nearly 4 kilograms of temple gold during the repair process.

The loss came to light after the plates were measured post-repair. Authorities later claimed that some quantity of the missing gold was recovered from Potti’s sister’s residence.

The SIT was formed following directions from the Kerala High Court. Potti has been booked under multiple provisions of the IPC, including criminal conspiracy, misappropriation, breach of trust, forgery, and offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 2018.

Separately, the Enforcement Directorate is also probing the case under money laundering laws.