Devaswom Vigilance Suspects Original Sabarimala Dwarapalaka Gold Panels Were Sold
Thiruvananthapuram: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) Vigilance has reached a preliminary conclusion that the original gold-coated panels from the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) sculptures at the Sabarimala temple may have been sold by goldsmith Unnikrishnan Potti.
According to vigilance sources, a difference was detected between the panels taken from the Sannidhanam in 2019 and the ones later returned, based on photographic comparison. The inspection almost confirmed that the returned panels were not the originals.
However, Unnikrishnan Potti claimed in his statement that the same original panels were brought back. Vigilance officials suspect that Potti is lying to conceal the fact that the genuine panels were replaced and sold, possibly at a value far beyond market price due to their religious and sentimental significance rather than mere gold content.
Officials have yet to determine where and to whom the original panels were handed over. The Vigilance’s final report, to be submitted to the Kerala High Court tomorrow, is expected to elaborate on these findings. A special investigation team appointed by the High Court will begin further inquiries into the matter on Saturday.
TDB Orders Comprehensive Probe into Gold Irregularities
The Travancore Devaswom Board has decided to conduct a detailed internal investigation into the alleged irregularities involving gold used in the Sabarimala sanctum, temple doors, Kattilapadi (threshold), and Dwarapalaka sculptures.
This decision comes alongside the ongoing probe by the High Court-appointed special team, following indications that more TDB officials — both serving and retired — might be involved in the suspected gold misappropriation.
The Vigilance’s final report is expected to name several officials, but preliminary inputs suggest that the number of those involved could be higher. The Board has resolved to take strict disciplinary action, including blocking the pensions of retired officials, if their role in the irregularities is proven.
Mahazars Found With Missing Signatures; Broader Conspiracy Suspected
In reviewing old mahazars (official inspection records) related to temple works, the Board found that several lacked the required signatures of key officials such as the Thiruvabharanam Commissioner and Executive Engineer, raising further suspicion of procedural lapses and deliberate tampering.
The Vigilance will conduct additional investigations into these questionable records.
Suspended Administrative Officer B. Murari Babu had earlier revealed that several other officials were present during the 2019 gold plating of the Dwarapalaka sculptures, hinting at a larger conspiracy at the administrative level. The Board is also collecting details about officers who were closely associated with then Executive Officer D. Sudheesh Kumar and Thiruvabharanam Commissioner K.S. Baiju, both of whom were in key positions during the episode.