Should Kerala Implement a Law to Safeguard Temple Assets?
Synopsis
The Kerala High Court has urged the State to create robust legislation for the protection of temple assets following alarming incidents of misappropriation. This call for action comes amid ongoing investigations into a high-profile gold theft case at the Sabarimala temple, highlighting the need for enhanced legal safeguards.
Key Takeaways
The Kerala High Court is advocating for a law to protect temple properties.
The law aims to impose strict penalties for misappropriation .
Concerns have been raised regarding the management of temple assets.
Ongoing investigations have led to multiple arrests.
Public trust in the stewardship of religious properties is crucial.
Ernakulam, Jan 12 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court on Monday made an oral recommendation for the State to consider establishing a detailed law aimed at safeguarding temple properties, with strict penal measures to tackle negligence and misappropriation.
This suggestion arose during the hearings regarding bail applications linked to the Sabarimala gold theft case, which has sparked significant concerns about the protections in place for temple assets.
Justice A. Badharudeen raised this point while deliberating on bail requests from former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president A. Padmakumar, former TDB official Murari Babu, and jeweler Govardhanan, all currently in judicial custody as suspects in the alleged misappropriation of gold from the Dwarapalaka idols and doorframes at the Sabarimala temple.
The court asked the Additional Director General of Prosecution (ADGP) why the State had not yet introduced specific legislation — tentatively named the 'Kerala State Devaswom Properties Protection and Preservation Act' — to impose criminal accountability for offenses related to temple properties.
Justice Badharudeen noted that while the Devaswom Manual outlines duties and procedures, violations of the manual result only in disciplinary measures and do not carry criminal implications.
“Numerous cases of misappropriation are surfacing in temples with substantial accumulated assets. Those responsible for their safeguarding owe a duty to the devotees. Thus, a formal enactment is essential,” the court asserted, encouraging the ADGP to confer with senior officials and submit a recommendation to the government.
The court has yet to issue a decision on the bail applications. In connection with the gold theft, 12 individuals have been arrested and are currently in judicial custody.
The Kerala High Court had previously appointed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the matter, naming 15 individuals across two separate charge sheets.
To complicate matters, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intervened. Despite resistance from the Kerala government, a local court has mandated the SIT to share all pertinent case details.
The ED has also initiated a PMLA case, and the Kerala High Court is anticipated to deliver its ruling on a CBI inquiry into the theft in response to a plea filed by state BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar.
Point of View
The call for a law to protect temple assets reflects a growing concern over the management of religious properties. It's essential that the State addresses these issues promptly to ensure trust and accountability in the stewardship of cultural treasures.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Kerala High Court's suggestion?
The court's suggestion was prompted by ongoing bail hearings in the Sabarimala gold theft case, which raised serious concerns about the protection of temple assets.
What does the proposed law include?
The proposed law aims to include stringent penal provisions to address negligence and misappropriation related to temple properties.
Who are the individuals involved in the Sabarimala case?
The individuals involved include former Travancore Devaswom Board president A. Padmakumar, former TDB official Murari Babu, and jeweler Govardhanan.
What has the court recommended to the ADGP?
The court recommended that the ADGP discuss the need for specific legislation with senior officials and present a proposal to the government.
How many arrests have been made in the gold theft case?
So far, 12 individuals have been arrested and are in judicial custody in connection with the gold theft case.
