Could a Lie-Detector Test Unravel the Gold Theft Mystery at Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
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Synopsis
In a stunning development, the Thiruvananthapuram court has ordered polygraph tests for six Padmanabhaswamy temple employees as part of the ongoing investigation into the temple's missing gold. This case continues to unfold, raising critical questions about the management of temple treasures.
Key Takeaways
- Polygraph tests ordered for six temple employees.
- Thiruvananthapuram Judicial Magistrate Court is overseeing the investigation.
- Approximately 104 grams of gold reported missing.
- Investigation ties to other recent theft cases.
- The temple remains under strict court supervision.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 8 (NationPress) In a significant turn of events regarding the Padmanabhaswamy temple gold theft case, the Thiruvananthapuram Judicial Magistrate Court has mandated polygraph tests on six employees of the temple concerning the missing gold from the temple's secure strong room.
Situated in the center of Thiruvananthapuram, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple stands as one of the wealthiest and most esteemed shrines in the nation, under strict watch and court supervision, especially following past Supreme Court interventions regarding its treasure management.
This new directive comes concurrently with the activities of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Kerala High Court, which has made arrests in another prominent case - the Sabarimala temple gold theft, where four individuals, including three employees from the Travancore Devaswom Board, have been detained.
The court's instruction was issued after a request from the Fort Police, who are delving into the Padmanabhaswamy case.
Officials indicated that these tests are anticipated to clarify how a certain amount of gold, earmarked for gilding the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) door, went missing.
As per police reports, around 13 sovereigns (approximately 104 grams) of gold vanished between May 7 and May 10 this year.
The temple manager lodged a complaint upon noticing the deficit.
During the investigation, a portion of the gold, identified as gold bars, was recovered from sand buried within the temple grounds, believed to be part of the missing inventory.
The court permitted the polygraph tests, stipulating that written consent be obtained from each of the six employees prior to the procedure.
Although not considered direct evidence, the results from lie-detector tests frequently assist investigators in evaluating the consistency of testimonies and uncovering possible discrepancies.
Police representatives stated that forensic procedures will be finalized shortly, emphasizing that the polygraph results could be pivotal in determining whether the gold was stolen, misplaced, or hidden during renovation work.
This latest court order signifies a crucial phase in the investigation aimed at unraveling the enigma surrounding the temple's missing gold.
Point of View
I believe this case underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in religious institutions. The involvement of a Special Investigation Team reflects a commitment to uncovering the truth, ensuring that the sanctity of the Padmanabhaswamy Temple is upheld.
NationPress
08/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the court ordering lie-detector tests?
The court ordered lie-detector tests on six temple employees following the investigation into the disappearance of gold from the temple's strong room.
How much gold went missing from the temple?
Approximately 13 sovereigns, or roughly 104 grams of gold, were reported missing from the temple between May 7 and May 10 this year.
What is the significance of the Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
The Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the richest and most revered temples in India, known for its immense treasure and historical significance.
What are polygraph tests used for in this case?
Polygraph tests are used to assist investigators in evaluating the credibility of statements made by the temple employees regarding the missing gold.
What other cases are related to this investigation?
The investigation is linked to another high-profile case involving the Sabarimala temple gold theft, with arrests already made in that instance.
