What Happened in the Kerala Assembly Over Missing Sabarimala Gold Plates?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events, the Kerala Assembly erupted in chaos as the Congress-led Opposition vociferously protested against the alleged disappearance of gold plates from the Sabarimala temple. With chants and banners, the Opposition demanded accountability, raising questions about transparency and trust in the revered temple's management.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala Assembly faced significant protests over missing Sabarimala gold plates.
- Opposition demands a CBI investigation into the matter.
- Speaker A.N. Shamseer had to suspend the Question Hour due to the uproar.
- Vigilance investigation revealed inconsistencies in key testimonies.
- Public trust in temple management is at stake.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 6 (NationPress) The Kerala Assembly was engulfed in chaos on Monday as the Congress-led Opposition initiated a vigorous protest regarding the alleged vanishing of gold plates that adorn the Sabarimala temple’s sanctum sanctorum.
As the session commenced, members of the Opposition surged into the well of the House, brandishing banners and chanting slogans, prompting Speaker A.N. Shamseer to suspend the Question Hour and temporarily adjourn the proceedings.
The banner raised by the Opposition declared, “Ayyappan’s gold swallowed by temple officials,” inciting a heated exchange between the Treasury and Opposition benches.
Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan claimed that a segment of the gold used for the temple’s gilded covering had mysteriously disappeared, calling for the resignation of Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan.
He accused the government of obstructing a thorough discussion regarding this significant issue in the House.
When the Speaker attempted to resume the Question Hour, Opposition legislators surrounded the chair, covered it with banners, and chanted “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa.”
They demanded a CBI investigation into what they labeled as a grave violation of public trust concerning the esteemed shrine.
Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal denounced the protest, asserting that interrupting the Question Hour contradicted democratic principles and showed disrespect to the populace.
Speaker Shamseer called for decorum, urging members to lower their banners and reminding them that such actions were considered unparliamentary. Vasavan stated that the Vigilance is currently investigating the matter.
Following the uproar, the session was momentarily adjourned.
Upon resuming, the Opposition sustained its outcry, with State Minister for Excise and Parliamentary Affairs M.B. Rajesh intervening. He remarked that the current Assembly had set a record in Kerala by addressing numerous adjournment motions for discussion.
“Thus far, this Assembly has convened for 188 days, and on only nine occasions did the Opposition not seek leave for an adjournment motion. Today is one of those days. This reflects the Opposition's reluctance to engage in discussion. They are attempting to obfuscate this issue and are evading the necessary procedures for an adjournment motion,” Rajesh stated.
Meanwhile, reports indicated that the Devaswom Vigilance has discovered discrepancies in the statements made by Unnikrishnan Potti, a pivotal figure related to the temple gold plating, and intends to submit a report to the High Court imminently.
Preliminary findings suggest potential collusion between sponsors and officials, with Vigilance sources indicating that scientific validation may be essential to ascertain the authenticity of the returned gold plates.
Point of View
The ongoing turmoil in the Kerala Assembly highlights a critical issue of accountability in religious institutions. The demands for a thorough investigation into the missing gold plates reflect broader concerns about transparency in governance. As the situation unfolds, it's essential for all parties to cooperate with the investigations to restore public trust and ensure accountability.
NationPress
06/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the protest in the Kerala Assembly?
The protest was triggered by the alleged disappearance of gold plates from the Sabarimala temple, leading to demands for accountability from the Opposition.
Who is leading the Opposition in this protest?
The Congress-led Opposition is spearheading the protest against the alleged mismanagement of temple assets.
What action has been demanded regarding the missing gold plates?
The Opposition has demanded a CBI investigation into the matter, citing a breach of public trust.
How did the Speaker respond to the protests?
Speaker A.N. Shamseer suspended the Question Hour and temporarily adjourned the session due to the uproar.
What findings have emerged from the Vigilance investigation?
Initial findings indicate discrepancies in statements made by key figures linked to the temple gold plating, suggesting possible collusion.
