Kerala High Court flags audit inconsistencies in Global Ayyappa Sangamam, seeks explanation from TDB

The Kerala High Court on Wednesday ordered the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to explain the inconsistencies flagged in the audited accounts of the 'Global Ayyappa Sangamam' event [Suo Motu v State of Kerala & anr].A Division Bench of Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V and KV Jayakumar also sought inputs from the Kerala State Audit Department before further orders are passed in the matter.The Court was examining the report filed by the Sabarimala Special Commissioner regarding the audited accounts of the TDB in relation to the Agola Ayyappa Sangamam or the Global Conclave of Ayyappa Devotees.The event was announced as part of the platinum jubilee celebrations of the TDB, showcasing Sabarimala as a global pilgrimage centre, to spread the universal message of 'Thathwamasi' and promote religious harmony and global unity.Multiple petitions were filed by devotees and religious bodies, questioning the involvement of the State and the TDB in conducting the event, and even sought to prevent the conduct of the event on concerns that it was a political event that misused Lord Ayyappa's name. The Court had earlier refused to restrain the event but had issued strict guidelines to ensure that the sanctity of the sacred Pamba river and the temple environment is preserved. It had also emphasised that there must be financial transparency in the funds used to hold the event..The Court had specifically ordered the maintenance of detailed, transparent accounts of all expenditures including travel and accommodation costs.It had also directed the TDB to ensure that the contributions received from sponsors must be audited and that a copy of the audit report must be submitted to the special commissioner of Sabarimala within 45 days of the event..Pursuant to that, the audit report was placed before the special commissioner.The Court today noted that the audit was entrusted to a chartered accountancy firm which highlighted several inconsistencies including the execution of work which was entrusted to the the Indian Institute of Infrastructure and Construction (IIIC) without following any tender or competitive bidding process. Serious inconsistencies were also observed in the joint measurement sheets relating to certain works, including wooden frame centre tables and food serving charges in VIP areas. No supporting documents were placed before the independent auditor supporting the tranasanctions and expenses, it was noted.Issues relating to GST input tax credit were also flagged in relation to the event. After going through the audit report, the Court directed the TDB to clarify the discrepancies and posted the matter for further consideration after ten days."The auditor has not received any confirmation regarding the treatment of input tax credit, relating to the Agola Ayappa Sangamam and the same has been adjusted against the general fund received from the Travancore Devaswom Board. Having gone through the auditor's statement, which is prepared in pursuance of the directions issued by this Court, we are the view that certain inputs can be obtained from the Kerala State Audit as well as the board, so that appropriate directions can be issued. Post after 10 days," the Court said..Advocate G Biju appeared for the Travancore Devaswom Board.Advocate General Gopalakrishna Kurup K appeared for the State..[Detailed Order Awaited].Follow Bar and Bench channel on WhatsAppDownload the Bar and Bench Mobile app for instant access to the latest legal news.