Kerala Government Vows to Protect Temple Treasures Amid Security Concerns

Kerala Devaswoms Minister K Muraleedharan has assured that temple assets across the state will remain protected, following reports of missing valuables from Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The minister indicated that a thorough investigation was underway to address these concerns and ensure that no one exploits religious treasures.

Muraleedharan noted that a dedicated temple administrative committee, involving both state and central representatives, is reviewing the allegations. Meanwhile, state Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has requested a comprehensive report from this panel. The focus is on confirming the security measures at the temple, and examining the possibility of internal foul play if needed.

Despite these developments, the temple management has rejected accusations of missing valuables and security gaps as unfounded. They consider the claims to be attempts to mislead the public and damage the temple's esteemed reputation.

This scrutiny follows a Supreme Court directive in 2011 to assess the temple's assets, which revealed an immense trove of gold and precious items. The temple remains a subject of legal interest, with the Supreme Court securing administrative rights over the temple for the erstwhile Travancore royal family in 2020.

(With inputs from agencies.)