SIT Formed to Probe Gold-Clad Idol Irregularities at Sabarimala Temple

The Kerala High Court has directed the creation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine the alleged irregularities concerning the reduced weight of gold-clad copper plates of the Dwarapalaka idols at Sabarimala temple.

The Bench of Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V and K V Jayakumar resolved to form the SIT following an interim report from the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) Vigilance team. The report stemmed from concerns about the idols' weight coming from electroplating done in 2019 by a Chennai firm, sponsored by businessman Unnikrishnan Potty.

The SIT will be led by Superintendent of Police S Sasidharan, renowned for his investigative skills in complex cases, under the supervision of Crime Branch head, Additional Director General of Police H Venketesh. The involvement of officials from the Cyber Police, following suggestions by the state government, reflects the case's gravity. Reports are to be submitted confidentially to the court. Devaswom Minister VN Vasavan has endorsed the court's decision.

(With inputs from agencies.)