Actor Jayaram has been questioned by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the high-profile Sabarimala gold theft case, and is likely to be arraigned as a key witness in the matter, officials said on Friday.

The actor was interviewed by SIT officials at his Chennai residence, where he provided a detailed statement about his interactions with the prime accused, Unnikrishnan Potti, and the movement of temple gold plates allegedly meant for the Sabarimala temple’s sanctum. Jayaram confirmed that the gold plates were brought to his home in Chennai for religious rituals, a fact investigators say supports evidence that the sacred items were taken outside Kerala without authorisation.

Despite the questioning, the SIT has made it clear that Jayaram is not being treated as an accused, and no legal action is currently planned against him. Investigation sources say his involvement was limited to faith-based and religious contexts, and there is no indication of financial dealings or wrongdoing linked to the theft.

Jayaram told investigators that he has been a long-time devotee of Sabarimala and has known Potti through temple visits for nearly five decades. He said he agreed to host prayers and rituals involving the gold plates on the understanding that they were meant for devotional purposes, not knowing of any alleged misappropriation.