Kerala High Court Advocates Stronger Laws for Temple Property Protection Amid Gold Theft Case

The Kerala High Court has urged the state to consider enacting a robust law to protect temple properties, emphasizing the need for criminal accountability amid ongoing investigations into the Sabarimala gold theft case. Justice A. Badharudeen's remarks came during bail hearings for individuals accused of misappropriating gold from temple idols. The court's call for a 'Kerala State Devaswom Properties Protection and Preservation Act' aims to address the rising instances of misappropriation and ensure that those responsible for safeguarding temple assets fulfill their duties to devotees. With 12 arrests made so far, the case has drawn significant attention, prompting involvement from the Enforcement Directorate and a Special Investigation Team.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 12, 2026, 19:04 IST

Kerala High Court's Call for Legislative Action

Ernakulam: On Monday, the Kerala High Court proposed that the state should consider implementing a comprehensive law aimed at safeguarding temple properties, incorporating strict penalties for negligence and misappropriation.

This suggestion arose during the hearings related to bail requests in the Sabarimala gold theft incident, which has highlighted significant concerns regarding the protection of temple assets.

Justice A. Badharudeen made these remarks while reviewing bail applications from A. Padmakumar, the former president of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), along with former TDB official Murari Babu and jeweller Govardhanan, all currently in judicial custody for their alleged involvement in the misappropriation of gold from the Dwarapalaka idols and doorframes at the Sabarimala temple.

The court questioned the Additional Director General of Prosecution (ADGP) on the absence of specific legislation, tentatively named the 'Kerala State Devaswom Properties Protection and Preservation Act', which would impose criminal liability for breaches concerning temple properties.

Justice Badharudeen noted that while the Devaswom Manual outlines responsibilities and procedures, violations only lead to disciplinary measures and do not constitute criminal offenses.

"Numerous cases of misappropriation are surfacing in temples with substantial assets. Those responsible for their safeguarding have a duty to the devotees. Therefore, a legislative framework is essential," the court emphasized, urging the ADGP to confer with senior officials and present a proposal to the government.

The court has postponed its decision on the bail applications. In connection with the gold theft case, 12 individuals have been arrested and remain in judicial custody.

The Kerala High Court had previously established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the matter, which has identified 15 individuals in two separate charge sheets.

Additionally, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intervened, and despite the Kerala government's objections, a local court has instructed the SIT to disclose all pertinent case information.

The ED has also initiated a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), and the Kerala High Court is anticipated to rule on a plea filed by state BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar regarding a CBI investigation into the theft.