KOCHI, Kerala:
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has informed the Kerala High Court that it is prepared to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the alleged large-scale gold heist and serious irregularities reported at the Sabarimala Sannidhanam, one of the most revered pilgrimage centres in India.
The CBI conveyed its readiness while responding to petitions seeking an independent probe into accusations that gold ornaments, including the sacred gold coverings (swarnna kavachams) of the deity and the gold used in the Dwarapalaka (gatekeeper) sculptures, were subjected to massive financial and material irregularities.
Allegations of Large-Scale Misappropriation
According to the petitions placed before the High Court, substantial quantities of gold entrusted to the Sabarimala temple for ritual use and ornamentation were allegedly misappropriated over a period of time. The allegations include discrepancies in the weight, purity, accounting, and handling of gold used for:
- The gold armour (kavacham) adorning the deity
- Gold-plated and gold-embedded Dwarapalaka sculptures
- Other temple ornaments and ritual assets
The petitioners have argued that these irregularities point to an organised and well-planned financial scam involving temple assets, warranting a central agency probe rather than a state-level investigation.
CBI’s Stand Before the High Court
During the hearing, the CBI submitted that it is fully equipped and willing to investigate the matter if the High Court deems it appropriate to entrust the case to the central agency. The agency stated that allegations involving high-value assets, religious endowments, and possible interstate or organised financial misconduct fall well within its investigative mandate.
The CBI also indicated that an independent probe would help ensure transparency, accountability, and public confidence, especially given the religious sensitivity and national significance of the Sabarimala shrine.
Background and Demand for Independent Probe
The controversy surrounding the alleged gold irregularities has been a subject of public debate in Kerala for some time. Questions were raised about audit reports, inventory records, and the role of various authorities involved in temple administration. Critics have alleged that earlier inquiries were either inadequate or inconclusive, prompting demands for a CBI investigation.
Sabarimala, managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board, attracts millions of pilgrims annually, and any allegation of misappropriation of temple wealth has serious religious, legal, and public ramifications.
What Lies Ahead
The Kerala High Court is expected to consider the submissions of all parties, including the state government and temple authorities, before deciding whether to hand over the investigation to the CBI. A final decision is likely to have significant implications for temple governance, auditing of religious institutions, and future handling of allegations involving sacred assets.
If the probe is entrusted to the CBI, it would mark a major escalation in the case and could potentially lead to criminal proceedings based on the findings of the central agency.
