Court-directed investigation covers multiple phases of alleged irregularities involving gold-plating works at the shrine
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged Sabarimala gold theft and irregularities case has sought additional time to complete its investigation, even as all accused currently named in the matter have secured bail.
Former Travancore Devaswom Board member KP Sankaradas was among those granted bail after the SIT failed to file chargesheets within the stipulated timeframe. He was the last accused in judicial custody among those named in the case.
The Kerala High Court had earlier directed the SIT to conduct the probe in four distinct phases. These include the gold-plating work carried out by the UB Group in 1998, the removal and gold-plating of the sanctum doorway panels in 2019, the gold-plating of the Dwarapalaka idols, and the re-gold-plating of the idols in 2025.
According to submissions made before the court, the SIT has identified 15 accused in the case related to the Dwarapalaka idols and 12 accused in the investigation concerning the sanctum doorway panels.
The case has remained under judicial scrutiny amid allegations of theft and irregularities involving gold used in works connected to the Sabarimala temple.
Meanwhile, Hindu Aikya Vedi state president RV Babu criticised what he described as the silence of the UDF government on the issue. He alleged that the government had highlighted the Sabarimala gold theft issue before coming to power but has not taken a strong public stand since assuming office.
“They came to power by highlighting the Sabarimala theft. They must clearly state their position. After assuming power, no statement has come from them,” Babu alleged.
Responding to concerns over the investigation, Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala recently asserted that strict action would be taken against those found responsible.
Speaking during the launch of an anti-corruption campaign last week, Chennithala said that no individual involved in the alleged theft of gold belonging to Lord Ayyappa at Sabarimala would be spared.
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