Have ISRO's Scientific Tests Confirmed the Stripping of Sabarimala Gold?
Synopsis
Recent scientific findings have shed light on the infamous Sabarimala gold theft case, confirming that the sanctum door remains original and that the crime involved the stripping of gold from copper sheets. This crucial information could redefine the investigation's direction.
Key Takeaways
Scientific findings confirm that the sanctum door panels are original.
The gold was stripped from copper sheets, not entirely replaced.
VSSC scientists conducted thorough analyses to clarify the situation.
No evidence supports claims of replacement of the sanctum fixtures.
Further investigations are underway to gather more data.
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 28 (NationPress) Recent scientific discoveries have brought significant clarity to the high-profile Sabarimala gold theft case. Experts have verified that the sanctum door panels remain unchanged and that the crime involved the removal of gold from copper-plated sheets.
The results, presented to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and submitted to the Kerala High Court on Wednesday, dismiss rumors of a complete replacement of the sanctum fixtures or their transfer to international smuggling rings.
Scientists from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (ISRO -VSSC) performed thorough material analyses and confirmed that the panels currently at Sabarimala are indeed the original copper sheets.
Tests have validated that the stolen items were gold layered over copper, contradicting earlier claims that suggested they were solid gold panels.
According to the evidence, the wooden structure of the sanctum door, locally known as the kattill, has also been confirmed as original.
However, samples taken from sheets that were removed and later reinstalled showed a notable decrease in gold content, proving that the precious metal had been stripped while the base copper remained intact.
In response to observable alterations in the panels that raised suspicions, VSSC scientists explained that these changes resulted from chemical reactions, not physical replacements.
The use of mercury and related chemical solutions, typically employed in gold extraction, caused variations in the chemical makeup of the sheets, resulting in surface-level modifications.
Importantly, there is no scientific proof to indicate that the original sheets were removed and replaced with new ones, as clarified by the scientists.
The SIT has informed the High Court that additional analyses are ongoing, including comparative tests of samples collected from the previous sanctum door.
Officials from VSSC have indicated that a comprehensive final report, incorporating these comparative findings, will be submitted soon.
This scientific testimony is anticipated to significantly impact the investigation, focusing on the mechanics of the gold theft and identifying those responsible for the chemically driven extraction while preserving the sanctum’s core structures.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of these findings in the Sabarimala gold theft investigation. The scientific clarity provided by ISRO experts is pivotal in guiding the SIT's next steps, ensuring that justice prevails while maintaining public trust in the investigative process.
NationPress
2 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the scientific findings reveal?
The findings confirmed that the sanctum door panels were original and that the gold was stripped from copper-plated sheets, not replaced entirely.
Who conducted the analysis?
The analysis was conducted by scientists from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (ISRO -VSSC).
What is the significance of these findings?
These revelations are crucial for the ongoing investigation, as they clarify the nature of the theft and the integrity of the sanctum.
Is there any evidence of the panels being replaced?
No, scientists have stated there is no evidence to suggest that the original sheets were removed and replaced.
What will happen next in the investigation?
The SIT is continuing its analysis and will incorporate new comparative tests from the original sanctum door in their final report.
