Kochi, February 17 Actor Jayaram, who arrived at the ED's office on Tuesday to answer questions regarding the alleged misappropriation of gold from Sabarimala, stated that everyone involved in the matter should be apprehended, and that Lord Ayyappa will not spare the culprits.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had earlier issued summons to the actor in connection with its investigation into money laundering linked to the alleged misappropriation of gold from the shrine.
Speaking to reporters outside the ED office here, Jayaram said that despite the thousands of temples across the country, Sabarimala holds a special place in the hearts of every Indian, as everyone is welcome there regardless of their caste or religion.
He said that if any such "scam" has taken place there, then "it should be brought to light", including those involved in it, and every person from Kerala is obliged to help in doing that.
"I am also a Malayali who is obliged to help with that. In the last 10-38 years, I have been invited to many temples for various pujas and other religious ceremonies or events, and I attend as many as possible."
"That is how I was called for a puja in connection with the Sabarimala artefacts. I was called for such pujas by them (Unnikrishnan Potty and others) several times."
"So, whether there was any irregularity behind it is being investigated by the court and the concerned agencies," he said.
The actor said that if the ED gets any useful information from him, it would be beneficial, as it would help bring out the truth.
"So, that is why I have been called. If there are any others involved in the matter, let them also be apprehended. Lord Ayyappa will not spare them," he said.
Last month, Jayaram was questioned by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is investigating the alleged misappropriation of gold from the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols and the door frames of the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum).
