A Kerala court has denied bail to former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president and CPM leader A. Padmakumar in connection with the alleged theft of gold from the Sabarimala temple's dwarapalaka idols. The Kollam Vigilance Court cited Padmakumar's political influence and administrative status, stating his release could lead to evidence manipulation. Prosecutors presented evidence linking him to a conspiracy, with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) informing the High Court that the theft is part of an organized crime and involved grave official misconduct.