Kerala High Court Approves SIT Investigation into Sabarimala Gold Plating Scandal

The Kerala High Court has granted the Special Investigation Team permission to conduct a scientific examination into alleged gold plating irregularities at the Sabarimala temple. This investigation aims to uncover the extent of gold misappropriation during renovation works. The court's directive follows serious allegations against contractor Unnikrishnan Potti and raises questions about oversight within the Travancore Devaswom Board. As the investigation unfolds, the SIT may summon additional CPI(M)-linked leaders, intensifying political scrutiny. The situation is evolving, with significant implications for those involved.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 5, 2025, 13:19 IST

Kerala High Court's Directive on Gold Plating Investigation

Kochi, Nov 5: The Kerala High Court has authorized the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to carry out a scientific examination as part of its inquiry into alleged irregularities concerning gold plating at the Sabarimala temple.

The court has granted the SIT permission to gather gold samples from various locations to ascertain the precise amount of gold that has been "lost or misappropriated" during the temple's renovation.

Additionally, the examination of the newly installed sanctum sanctorum (Sreekovil) door has been approved, amid allegations of significant fraud during its replacement.

This directive followed the SIT's submission of its latest progress report to the High Court. During the proceedings, the court noted serious allegations against contractor Unnikrishnan Potti, who was reportedly given excessive leeway by officials of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) while managing the gold-plating project.

The bench highlighted that several officials allegedly aided Potti in various transactions, raising serious concerns regarding oversight and accountability within the Board.

"The investigation must encompass all individuals involved in the gold theft, whether directly or indirectly," the court emphasized, underlining that the TDB's primary responsibility is to protect the deity's assets.

Importantly, the High Court has also directed the SIT to explore whether TDB officials could be subjected to the Prevention of Corruption Act, thereby expanding the investigation's scope.

The alleged irregularities pertain to the gold plating of the temple's sanctum doors and other structures as part of renovation efforts.

The controversy arose when the quantity of gold reportedly used did not align with official records, leading to suspicions of extensive misappropriation.

The investigation, led by Additional Director General of Police H. Venkitesh, has already resulted in the arrests of three individuals: Potti, serving TDB official Murari Babu, and former official Sudheesh Kumar.

On Monday, the SIT interrogated former TDB president and two-term commissioner N. Vasu, who is a CPI(M) supporter and a close associate of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

With the Congress party calling for the resignation of Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan and questioning former minister and CPI(M) MLA Kadakampally Surendran, the ruling party is facing increased pressure.

The upcoming days are anticipated to be pivotal, as the SIT may summon additional leaders linked to the CPI(M), including former TDB presidents A. Padmakumar and Ananthagopan, along with the current chief P. S. Prasanth.