NATIONAL: Where Did Sabarimala’s 4.5 kg Gold Go? Court Orders Probe
The revered Sabarimala temple in Kerala finds itself at the center of a deepening controversy over the handling of sacred artifacts.
Gold-plated copper covers adorning the Dwarapalak idols guardians flanking the sanctum were removed in 2019 for restoration, but recent revelations about a significant weight shortfall have drawn sharp scrutiny from the Kerala High Court.
This issue stems from a petition highlighting procedural lapses, prompting the court to question the oversight during the entire process.
As devotees worldwide hold the temple dear, these developments underscore the need for transparency in managing its treasures.
The 2019 Removal Process
In 2019, the covers on the Dwarapalak idols were taken down for repairs to preserve their condition.
A donor named Unnikrishnan volunteered to oversee the work, promising to return them refurbished with fresh gold plating.
The artifacts were then sent to a firm in Chennai for the job, about 40 days after removal.
At that point, records showed the covers weighed 42.8 kilograms, a detail meant to ensure accountability.
Unexplained Weight Shortfall
When the company received the items, they reported a weight of just 38.28 kilograms a drop of 4.524 kilograms.
This discrepancy has puzzled authorities, as no immediate explanation surfaced for the loss.
The court has flagged this as potentially linked to missing gold plating, or even a possible substitution with lighter replicas.
Why no weight verification occurred upon reinstallation remains a key unanswered question.
Vigilance Inquiry Ordered
Taking a firm stance, the Kerala High Court has directed a vigilance committee to probe the matter thoroughly.
The panel must uncover how the weight diminished and address any procedural gaps.
The Travancore Devaswom Board, which oversees the temple, has been instructed to extend full cooperation.
A comprehensive report is due within three weeks, with the next hearing set for September 30, 2025.
Roots in Procedural Petition
The saga traces back to a court petition alleging the covers were shifted without notifying the Sabarimala Special Commissioner.
During a recent session, justices voiced strong displeasure over the lack of prior approval.
They demanded a detailed account from the board on these unauthorized actions, emphasizing the sanctity of temple protocols.
This move aims to prevent future mishandlings of such valuable religious items.
As the investigation unfolds, it highlights the delicate balance between maintenance needs and preserving cultural heritage in one of India’s most visited pilgrimage sites.