Sabarimala Gold Theft Case: Door Panels Not Replaced, Only Gold Plating Stolen; Crucial Forensic Report Reveals
Thiruvananthapuram: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Sabarimala gold theft case has received the final scientific examination report. According to the findings, the wooden door panels (Kattila panels) of the Sabarimala sanctum sanctorum were not replaced or altered. The report also concludes that only the gold plating was stolen, not the original structural components.
The findings are based on tests conducted at the National Metallurgical Laboratory (NML) in Jamshedpur. The SIT had collected samples from the temple’s Dwarapalaka sculptural panels and the sanctum door panels for scientific analysis. Around eight samples were sent for examination, and the results have now been submitted to the SIT.
The investigation report has been submitted to the Vigilance Court in Kollam. With the scientific findings now in hand, the SIT is expected to file its charge sheet in the case soon.
Earlier, in February, the High Court had directed that the gold samples undergo advanced scientific testing to establish crucial facts in the investigation. Acting on the court’s directive, the SIT sent the samples to the National Metallurgical Laboratory for detailed analysis.
Meanwhile, the High Court recently made an oral observation that it would not cancel the bail granted to Thantri Kandararu Rajeevararu in connection with the case. The court also indicated that certain remarks made by the Vigilance Court could be removed from the record.
The matter came before the High Court through a government appeal seeking the cancellation of the Thantri’s bail and the removal of the Vigilance Court’s observation that there was no evidence against him. The appeal is scheduled to be considered further at a later date.