Kerala HC Sets One-Month Deadline for SIT on Missing Sabarimala Gold
High Court demands answers in temple gold disappearance row.
The Kerala High Court on Monday ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the explosive Sabarimala gold-plating controversy, spotlighting allegations of missing gold from the revered temple’s sanctum sanctorum. The SIT, led by ADGP H. Venkatesh and comprising five members, has been tasked with submitting a confidential report within a month, signaling the judiciary’s urgency in addressing the escalating scandal that has sparked outrage across the state.
The court’s directive follows a damning Devasom Vigilance report that uncovered significant discrepancies in the quantity of gold used for the temple’s golden covering. The findings have fueled accusations of mismanagement and possible theft, igniting a fierce political storm in the Kerala Assembly. On Monday, the Congress-led Opposition staged a dramatic protest, storming the well of the House with banners reading, “Ayyappan’s gold swallowed by temple officials.” Their actions disrupted proceedings, forcing Speaker A.N. Shamseer to suspend the Question Hour and briefly adjourn the session amid chaotic scenes.
Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan spearheaded the protest, accusing temple authorities and the state government of negligence and demanding the resignation of Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan. “Gold meant for Lord Ayyappa has vanished under this government’s watch,” Satheesan charged, alleging a cover-up and calling for a CBI investigation to unearth the truth. Opposition legislators surrounded the Speaker’s chair, chanting “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” and draping banners over it, decrying what they called a betrayal of devotees’ trust.
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The protests drew sharp rebuke from the ruling side. Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal labeled the Opposition’s tactics as “undemocratic” and disrespectful to the Assembly’s decorum, while Speaker Shamseer urged restraint to restore order. Outside the House, Satheesan doubled down, reiterating demands for Vasavan’s resignation and that of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president, accusing them of failing to safeguard the temple’s sanctity.
In response, Minister Vasavan welcomed the High Court’s intervention, emphasizing the government’s commitment to transparency. “Neither the government nor the Devaswom Board has any role in this issue. Our duty is to support the pilgrimage season, not to manage temple assets,” he clarified, noting that the government provides financial aid to the TDB without taking any funds in return. Vasavan also pointed out that the Vigilance department is already investigating, reinforcing the state’s cooperation with the SIT probe.
The Sabarimala gold controversy has struck a deep chord among devotees, with the temple being one of South India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, drawing millions annually. The allegations of missing gold have not only raised questions about the TDB’s oversight but also intensified political tensions ahead of the upcoming pilgrimage season. As the SIT begins its investigation, all eyes are on whether it can unravel the mystery behind the missing gold and restore faith in the temple’s administration.
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