Key facts
- The SIT is investigating gold loss cases at the Sabarimala temple.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Sabarimala gold loss cases will collect new samples from temple artefacts, including the Prabhamandalam and upper-side door frame plates. The Kerala High Court granted permission for this scientific analysis to ascertain the actual weight and gold quantity.
The ongoing investigation into the alleged gold loss at the Sabarimala temple could lead to further legal action and accountability for those involved in the misappropriation of temple artefacts.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged gold loss at the Sabarimala temple is set to collect additional samples from temple artefacts. The SIT has received permission from the Kerala High Court and the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to visit the temple and gather samples from the Prabhamandalam and upper-side door frame plates.
The court's decision on June 8 allows for the scientific analysis of these artefacts to ascertain their actual weight and the quantity of gold cladding. The SIT had previously faced difficulties in dismantling certain structures for sample collection.
In parallel, the SIT plans to interrogate former TDB president PS Prasanth and former board member A Aji Kumar next week. This questioning is related to the removal and transportation of artefacts to Chennai for replating in 2025 without prior High Court permission. Both individuals had been questioned previously in connection with the alleged misappropriation of gold from idols and door frames in 2019.
Investigations into the two registered cases have been completed, resulting in the arrest of 12 individuals, all of whom are currently on bail.