‘State to decide on idol theft cases transfer to CBI’

The division bench comprising Justice R Mahadevan and Justice P D Audikesavalu before whom the plea seeking to quash the GO transferring all idol theft cases to CBI came up on Thursday, observed that since the probe into the idol theft cases by the idol wing must be completed the Government can’t afford to waste time and hence should make an early decision.

The bench’s observation was in sequel to the Government counsel appearing in the case seeking more time to file its response to CBI withdrawing from taking up the probe.

The CBI during the earlier hearing had told the court that considering the large number of idol theft cases pending in various stages and also the future idol theft cases likely to come up, and owing to severe shortage of manpower it would be unable to take up the probe. However, it was submitted that CBI will confine to extending its full co-operation and support in the matters of extradition of accused, issue of Red Corner notices and coordinate with Interpol and the Special Investigation Team, probing the idol theft cases.

Further, on behalf of the petitioner it was also submitted that HR and CE additional Commissioner M Kavitha arrested on charges of receiving a bribe in the case of irregularities in the making of 5.75 kg gold Somaskanthar idol for Ekambareswarar temple at Kancheepuram should be suspended as her continuation in the post would hamper probe. 

The bench posted the case to October 10 after directing the Government to file a report in this regard.