SIT Deepens Investigation into Sabarimala Gold Panel Incident
Synopsis
The SIT's investigation into the gold panel removal from Sabarimala temple intensifies, with key figures being questioned. As procedural lapses come to light, the probe raises questions about administrative integrity and oversight.
Key Takeaways
SIT intensifies investigation into Sabarimala gold panel removal.
Former Devaswom Board officials questioned.
Concerns over procedural lapses and judicial compliance.
Thirteen arrests made in connection with the gold scam.
Calls for greater transparency in temple asset management.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 21 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT), examining the controversial removal of gold-plated panels from the Sabarimala temple in 2025, has ramped up its investigation. They are questioning significant individuals and scrutinizing procedural errors that have sparked political and administrative concerns.
This intensified inquiry aligns with the SIT's impending submission of a detailed report to the High Court, which had tasked them last year.
P.S. Prasanth, the former president of the Devaswom Board, faced questioning for the third time on Monday as the investigation expands.
Ajikumar, a former Devaswom Board member, was also interrogated.
Investigators are concentrating on how the gold panels were transferred to the temple’s tantri without prior consent from the Kerala High Court, a transaction the SIT has highlighted as a blatant breach of established procedures.
This issue previously escalated into a significant controversy, leading Prasanth to issue an apology before the High Court.
The SIT is currently assessing whether the decision to transfer the panels circumvented necessary oversight protocols and if any external pressures were involved.
Additionally, the SIT has gathered statements from all officials who participated in the transport of the panels on September 7, 2025.
Testimonies were collected both at Sannidhanam and in Thiruvananthapuram, showcasing the probe’s expanding breadth and urgency.
Attention has also shifted to the current Thiruvabharanam Commissioner, whose statement is anticipated to be crucial.
The commissioner had initially expressed doubts about the technical skills of Smart Creations, the company responsible for the gold plating, but later submitted a report affirming the firm's capabilities.
This change has raised concerns about potential external influences affecting official evaluations.
With various layers of administrative decision-making under scrutiny, the SIT is expected to present its findings in the coming weeks, as demands for increased transparency in the management of temple assets and compliance with judicial directives grow.
In two separate charge sheets filed by the SIT regarding the gold scam, 13 individuals were arrested, all of whom are currently out on bail.
Point of View
The SIT’s investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft highlights critical concerns regarding procedural integrity and accountability within temple management. The unfolding events call for rigorous scrutiny of administrative practices to ensure transparency and adherence to judicial guidelines.
NationPress
4 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SIT investigating regarding Sabarimala temple?
The SIT is investigating the removal of gold-plated panels from the Sabarimala temple, focusing on procedural lapses and potential violations of judicial directives.
Who has been questioned in the SIT investigation?
P.S. Prasanth, the former president of the Devaswom Board, and Ajikumar, a former member of the Board, have been questioned as part of the inquiry.
What concerns have been raised about the transfer of gold panels?
Concerns have been raised about the transfer of gold panels to the temple’s tantri without prior approval from the Kerala High Court, indicating a possible breach of established procedures.
How many individuals have been arrested in relation to the gold scam?
Thirteen individuals have been arrested in connection with the gold scam, all of whom are currently out on bail.
What is the expected outcome of the SIT's investigation?
The SIT is expected to submit its findings in the coming weeks, with growing calls for transparency in the management of temple assets.
