SIT probe into Sabarimala theft cannot be interfered with, says Muraleedharan

Health and Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan said here on Tuesday that the state government cannot interfere in the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the Sabarimala gold theft case as any such interference would amount to contempt of court.

The minister said the government cannot order a fresh probe as the SIT has full jurisdiction over the case. “The legal aspects will be reviewed and the government will take an appropriate decision,” he said. Pointing out that the SIT is yet to file a charge sheet, he said the elected government has a responsibility to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

He said renovation and expansion work at Palakkad District Hospital was progressing with one block to be completed in three months and another in 18 months. After the completion of the projects, the hospital will be upgraded to a General Hospital, he added.

Mr. Muraleedharan said that Palakkad District Hospital has the highest number of doctor vacancies in the state and steps will be taken to fill them at the earliest. He added that the newly appointed hospital superintendent was yet to take charge and was instructed to do so without delay.

Regarding medical education, Mr. Muraleedharan said the government has directed that only four-year tuition fees be charged for MBBS courses from the current academic year. The issue of overpayment of fees collected in previous years has been taken up in court and the government will abide by its verdict, insisting that the overpayment should be returned to students.

Earlier, the minister toured health facilities in Palakkad and visited temples in Kalpathy and Manappullikavu.

Published – 14 Jul 2026 19:14 IST