Key Facts
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Sabarimala gold loss cases is set to collect additional samples from temple artefacts for scientific analysis. The SIT recently approached the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) for permission to visit the Sabarimala temple and collect samples from the Prabhamandalam and the upper-side door frame plates. The TDB has granted permission, and a team will soon reach the hill shrine to complete the procedure within two days.
Details of the Investigation
On June 8, 2026, the Kerala High Court granted permission to the SIT to collect the samples. The SIT informed the court that although samples had earlier been collected from certain artefacts in the Sabarimala Sreekovil, the Prabhamandalam plates and the upper-side door frame plate could not be dismantled due to objections and practical difficulties faced by skilled workers. The SIT submitted that dismantling the structures and collecting samples with expert assistance was necessary to ascertain the actual weight of the artefacts and accurately assess the quantity of gold cladding on them.
Accepting the request, the court said it was satisfied that the step was necessary at the present stage of the investigation. The court directed that the samples be forwarded to a laboratory for analysis so that the truth of the matter could be fully and conclusively ascertained.
Interrogation of Former TDB Officials
Meanwhile, the SIT will interrogate former TDB president PS Prasanth and former board member A Aji Kumar next week. Officials said summons would soon be issued to both of them to collect information regarding the removal of artefacts and their transportation to Chennai for replating without the permission of the Kerala High Court in 2025. Both were earlier questioned in connection with the alleged misappropriation of gold from the Dwarapalaka idols and the Sreekovil door frames at Sabarimala when they were taken for replating in 2019.
Impact and Progress
The SIT recently informed the Kerala High Court that investigations in the two cases registered in connection with the incident had been completed. As many as 12 people were arrested in the two cases, and all of them are currently out on bail. The ongoing probe aims to uncover the full extent of the gold loss and hold those responsible accountable.
What Readers Should Know
- The SIT is collecting samples from Prabhamandalam and door frame plates to determine actual gold content.
- Former TDB officials PS Prasanth and A Aji Kumar will be questioned next week.
- 12 individuals have been arrested in connection with the gold loss, all out on bail.
- The Kerala High Court has approved the sample collection for forensic analysis.
FAQ
Why is SIT collecting more samples from Sabarimala artefacts?
To ascertain the actual weight and gold cladding on Prabhamandalam and door frame plates, as earlier samples could not be taken due to practical difficulties.
Who are the former TDB officials to be questioned?
Former TDB president PS Prasanth and former board member A Aji Kumar.
How many people have been arrested in the Sabarimala gold loss cases?
12 people have been arrested, all currently out on bail.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com