Sabarimala Gold Loss Probe: SIT to Collect More Artefact Samples, Interrogate Ex-Officials

Investigators probing the alleged loss of gold from Sabarimala temple artefacts are preparing to collect additional samples for scientific analysis. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has received permission from the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to visit the Sabarimala temple and gather samples from the Prabhamandalam and the upper-side door frame plates.

The Kerala High Court granted the SIT permission to collect these samples on June 8. According to SIT sources, the TDB has allowed the procedure to be completed within two days. A team is expected to reach the hill shrine shortly. The court was informed that previous attempts to collect samples from certain artefacts faced objections and practical difficulties, preventing the dismantling of structures like the Prabhamandalam plates and the upper-side door frame plate.

Experts believe dismantling these structures and collecting samples is crucial to accurately determine the artefacts' original weight and the extent of gold cladding. The SIT aims to conclusively ascertain the truth behind the alleged gold misappropriation. The investigation is ongoing, with the SIT also planning to interrogate former TDB president PS Prasanth and former board member A Aji Kumar next week.

These former officials will be questioned about the removal and transportation of artefacts to Chennai for replating in 2025, reportedly without the High Court's permission. Both had previously been questioned in connection with the alleged misappropriation of gold from Dwarapalaka idols and Sreekovil door frames during a replating process in 2019. The SIT recently informed the court that investigations into two related cases were complete, resulting in 12 arrests, all of whom are currently out on bail.