Kerala High Court orders SIT to ensure foolproof probe into Milma ghee supply irregularities
The Kerala High Court has directed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged misappropriation in the purchase and supply of ghee by the Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (Milma) for Sabarimala to conduct a “foolproof and expeditious probe.” The directive was issued by a Division Bench comprising Justice V. Raja Vijayaraghavan and Justice K.V. Jayakumar while reviewing the progress of the investigation.
The court was informed that records had been seized from the offices of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) at Sabarimala, Nilackal, Erumely, Pathanamthitta, Pandalam and Thiruvananthapuram. Additionally, records were seized from Milma’s offices in Thiruvananthapuram and Pathanamthitta. The SIT also reported that numerous witnesses have been examined so far.
The investigation stems from irregularities flagged in the procurement of ghee from Milma for the preparation of ‘aravana’ during the annual pilgrimage season of 2025-26. Reports filed by Sabarimala Special Commissioner R. Jayakrishnan and the Chief Vigilance and Security Officer of the TDB had highlighted discrepancies in the tender process and the actual quantity of ghee supplied.
According to the reports, the Special Commissioner had objected to the award of the tender to Milma. However, the TDB, under president P.S. Prasanth and members including Aji Kumar, approved the order, bypassing the e-tender process that had already been initiated. The reports also raised questions about whether the full quantity of 1,61,535 litres of ghee allegedly supplied by Milma reached the Sannidhanam, the temple premises.
Following these findings, the High Court constituted the SIT, headed by M.J. Sojan, Superintendent of Police, Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB). The team has been tasked with conducting a thorough investigation into the allegations, including potential criminal liability of the individuals involved. The court’s directive for a “foolproof and expeditious” probe underscores the seriousness with which it views the matter.
Milma, the apex body of milk cooperatives in Kerala, has been a key supplier of ghee for the preparation of ‘aravana,’ a sacred sweet prasadam offered at the Sabarimala temple. The temple, managed by the TDB, attracts millions of devotees each year during the pilgrimage season. The quality and supply of prasadam ingredients are considered matters of great religious significance, and any irregularity in their procurement is viewed seriously by the devotee community.
The High Court’s decision to monitor the investigation closely reflects the public interest involved. The SIT has been directed to keep the court apprised of the progress, and any lapses in the investigation would be viewed seriously. The case remains sub judice, and further hearings are expected as the probe progresses.
