What Happened in the Sabarimala Gold Row in Kerala Assembly?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a recent uproar within the Kerala Assembly, the Congress-led UDF attempted to raise the Sabarimala gold plating issue but faced a refusal from the Speaker. This led to a dramatic walkout by the opposition, highlighting tensions over the missing gold and the government's accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala Assembly witnessed heated exchanges over the Sabarimala gold controversy.
- The Speaker blocked the Opposition's motion, citing ongoing court proceedings.
- Concerns raised over missing gold plating, amounting to nearly four kilograms.
- Political tensions escalated with accusations exchanged between government and Opposition.
- High Court to review the case again on September 30.
Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 19 (NationPress) The Kerala Assembly witnessed a tumultuous session on Friday when the Congress-led UDF's attempt to discuss the Sabarimala gold plating controversy through an adjournment motion was thwarted by the Speaker, resulting in a dramatic walkout.
This controversy revolves around allegations that the gold plating on the sanctum sanctorum’s idol was removed without proper authorization, and approximately four kilograms of the plating is reportedly missing.
In light of the “deep anguish of devotees,” the Opposition called for an immediate debate.
Speaker A.N. Shamseer dismissed the motion, citing that the matter is currently under consideration by the Kerala High Court. “As the issue is sub judice, the House cannot discuss it,” he stated.
Interestingly, on Wednesday, the Kerala High Court expressed serious concerns regarding inconsistencies in the weight of gold plates utilized in the sanctum (Sannidhanam) of the Sabarimala temple, ordering a thorough investigation into what it described as a “strange and worrying” situation.
During the previous hearing, the court inquired how the plates, which weighed 42 kg during their removal in 2019 for gold plating, displayed a four kg shortage upon being returned.
In response to the Speaker's refusal to allow the motion for discussion, Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan retorted that similar motions had been permitted in the past despite ongoing court cases.
“The government is using procedural tactics to evade accountability,” he claimed.
Excise Minister M.B. Rajesh accused the Opposition of inciting unrest among Ayyappa devotees. “This is merely an expression of frustration. They are intentionally bringing a matter currently under court review to create chaos,” he asserted.
Unfazed, the Opposition accused the government of “continued neglect” of Sabarimala and insisted that the topic deserved a full discussion.
Congress veteran Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan had filed the notice that was ultimately rejected, leading to the walkout by the Opposition.
Minister P. Rajeeve later mocked the Opposition's actions, highlighting that the High Court is scheduled to revisit the case on September 30.
“Had the Opposition forced a debate today, they would have exited looking even more foolish than they have in the past three days,” he commented.
The disappearance of the gold plating at Sabarimala has already stirred unease among devotees and ignited political disputes outside the Assembly, with the government facing pressure to provide reassurance regarding the safety of temple assets.
Point of View
The ongoing Sabarimala gold plating controversy underscores the complex interplay between religious sentiments and political accountability. The Kerala Assembly's heated exchanges reflect broader questions about governance, transparency, and the management of sacred assets, an issue that resonates deeply with both devotees and the public at large.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold plating controversy?
The controversy involves allegations that unauthorized removal of the gold plating on the idol in Sabarimala's sanctum occurred, leading to a reported loss of about four kilograms of gold.
Why did the Opposition walk out of the Kerala Assembly?
The Opposition staged a walkout after the Speaker rejected their attempt to discuss the gold plating issue through an adjournment motion.
What did the Kerala High Court say about the gold plates?
The Kerala High Court expressed concerns over discrepancies in the weight of the gold plates used in the Sabarimala temple and ordered a detailed investigation.
How did the government respond to the Opposition's claims?
The government, through its ministers, accused the Opposition of inciting unrest among devotees and claimed they were using procedural tactics to evade accountability.
When will the High Court revisit the case?
The High Court is set to take up the case again on September 30.
