Devaswom clerk suspended for stealing money during treasury counting at temple in Kerala’s Kannur

A Devaswom clerk accused of stealing money during treasury counting at the Trichambaram Sri Krishna temple at Taliparamba, Kannur, Kerala has been suspended pending investigation. The theft took place during the counting process on July 25, 2025.

Action was taken following a complaint by Sri Krishna Seva Samithi president A.P. Gangadharan. CCTV visuals revealed that Mullappally Narayanan of Cheriyoor, an LD clerk at the temple, stole the money. The footage was examined after two devotees assisting in treasury counting tipped off Devaswom authorities.

CCTV footage showing Mr. Narayanan putting cash into his pocket and exchanging notes during the counting has been released.

Several complaints had called for disciplinary action against the accused earlier too.

The Malabar Devaswom Commissioner had previously ordered action against Mr. Narayanan for allegedly making a fake service book, but the move was stalled allegedly due to administrative influence.

Mr. Narayanan is also the Taliparamba area president of the Devaswom Employees Union (CITU).