CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The Kerala High Court has directed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations of irregularities concerning the gold‑clad copper plates of the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols at the Sabarimala temple. This decision follows an interim report by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) Vigilance team, which highlighted discrepancies in the weight and gold content of the panels after they were sent for restoration in 2019 and 2025. The panels, originally weighing 42.8 kilograms, were found to weigh only 38.258 kilograms upon their return, raising concerns about potential mishandling or substitution.
The controversy intensified when businessman Unnikrishnan Potty, who had sponsored the gold plating, alleged that two panels he donated were missing from the temple’s strongroom. These items were later discovered at a relative’s residence by the TDB Vigilance wing, sparking public outrage and protests.
In response, the High Court appointed Superintendent of Police S. Sasidharan to lead the SIT, with oversight by Additional Director General of Police H. Venketesh. The court has mandated that the investigation be conducted confidentially, with reports submitted directly to it.
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