What’s Happening in the Sabarimala Gold Theft Case?
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Synopsis
The investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft is intensifying, with the Special Investigation Team now conducting forensic checks at the temple. This pivotal development raises questions about financial misconduct and the fate of precious gold intended for temple renovations. As the SIT and ED delve deeper, major revelations may soon emerge.
Key Takeaways
- The SIT has initiated forensic checks at the Sabarimala temple.
- Gold sheets have been removed for testing to investigate claims of theft.
- Five individuals are currently detained for their involvement.
- The High Court is actively overseeing the investigation process.
- Potential financial irregularities related to temple funds are under scrutiny.
Sabarimala, Nov 17 (NationPress) The investigation into the gold theft at the Sabarimala temple has significantly escalated as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) commenced important evidence-gathering operations within the sacred sanctum sanctorum of the temple.
This collection occurred during the closure of the temple after the morning session.
Under the clear instructions of the High Court, the SIT initiated the removal of specific gold sheets from the temple's architecture to enable forensic analysis.
Gold plates from the Dwarapalaka idols and segments of the Sreekovil’s right panel were meticulously removed for sample collection.
Officials stated that the sheets would undergo weighing, purity testing, and will be reinstated afterwards.
This operation represents the most decisive action to date in addressing claims that gold intended for temple renovations was misappropriated and supplanted with inferior materials.
The SIT’s inspections come amid growing scrutiny regarding potential financial irregularities.
The ED approached the High Court following a Ranni court denial of its request for access to FIRs, witness testimonies, and related documents from the state police investigation.
The central agency informed the court of its suspicions linking the alleged misappropriation to money laundering, seeking comprehensive documentation to pursue parallel inquiries into any illicit financial activities.
A single bench led by Justice C.S. Dias directed that the ED’s request be forwarded to the Devaswom Division Bench, which is already reviewing cases related to the gold-plating matter.
The bench acknowledged that the Chief Justice should determine the suitable forum due to the sensitive nature of the situation.
The court also noted that judicial consistency necessitated that all associated petitions be heard by the same bench.
Investigators suspect that the alleged theft tied to gold plating performed on temple structures in 2019 reveals substantial discrepancies between the gold allocated and the materials utilized.
The SIT's recent round of measurements and evaluations is anticipated to be pivotal in confirming whether significant diversions occurred.
As both the SIT's scientific investigation and the ED's financial examination intensify, the Sabarimala gold-plating case is now at a critical juncture, setting the stage for significant developments in the weeks ahead.
Currently, five individuals, four of whom are either serving or former officials associated with the Travancore Devaswom Board, are in custody, alongside the primary accused, Unnikrishnan Potti.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the investigation with integrity and impartiality. The evidence collected by the SIT could significantly impact the credibility of the temple’s management and the associated officials. Transparency and accountability must be prioritized as this case unfolds, ensuring justice prevails in the community's interest.
NationPress
17/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the Sabarimala gold theft investigation?
The Special Investigation Team has begun forensic checks at the temple, collecting critical evidence related to the alleged theft.
How many individuals are currently in custody regarding this case?
Five individuals, including four officials from the Travancore Devaswom Board, are currently in custody.
What actions has the High Court taken in this matter?
The High Court directed the SIT to conduct forensic testing on the gold sheets from the temple and also addressed the ED's request for access to investigation documents.
What are the implications of the investigation for the temple management?
The investigation could lead to serious accountability measures against the temple management if misappropriation is confirmed.
Why is this case significant?
It raises concerns about financial integrity and the management of religious assets, impacting public trust in religious institutions.
