In a significant escalation of the ongoing Sabarimala gold misappropriation investigation, the Special Investigation Unit (SIT) has shifted its primary focus to the controversial refurbishment of the ‘Dwarapalaka’ sculptures. These iconic guardian figures, stationed at the entrance of the sanctum sanctorum of the hilltop shrine, are at the center of allegations involving the potential diversion of gold ornaments and precious materials.
Detailed Audit of Temple Gold Records
Investigators are currently meticulously cross-referencing temple storage logs with the actual weight of the gold used during the structural updates of the shrine. The SIT, led by senior officials, is examining whether the quantity of gold officially released from the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) strongrooms matches the volume present on the sculptures and other renovated elements of the temple. Preliminary findings have reportedly sparked concerns regarding discrepancies in the accounting of gold leafing and solid gold ornaments provided by devotees over several decades.
Scrutiny of Former Officials and Contractors
The inquiry has expanded to include recorded testimonies from former board members and contractors who were directly involved in the ‘refurbishment’ project. Sources suggest that the SIT is looking for procedural lapses or intentional bypasses of standard security protocols during the transport and application of the gold. The probe aims to determine if inferior alloys were substituted for pure gold during the gilding process of the Dwarapalaka statues.
Devotee Concerns and Transparency
The Sabarimala temple, one of the wealthiest and most visited shrines in India, relies heavily on the ‘Kanakabhishekam’ and other gold offerings from millions of pilgrims. Any allegation of mismanagement regarding these sacred offerings carries immense emotional and political weight in Kerala. The SIT has assured the public that the investigation will be exhaustive, utilizing modern smelting analysis and metallurgical testing if necessary to verify the purity of the gold currently adorning the temple structures.
As the SIT speeds up its inquiry, the Travancore Devaswom Board has been directed to provide all documentation related to the ‘Maranom’ (maintenance) works conducted over the last ten years. Legal experts suggest that if evidence of criminal breach of trust is found, multiple high-ranking individuals could face formal charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
