Kerala HC greenlights SIT’s high-tech probe into Sabarimala gold mystery

Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Thursday authorised the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to carry out scientific tests at the Sabarimala temple as part of its ongoing probe into the loss of gold from the shrine. The division bench, comprising Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan and K V Jayakumar, scheduled the tests for November 17.

The SIT had earlier sought the court’s approval to examine the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols and associated temple structures to determine the extent of gold reportedly lost in 2019. The court instructed investigators to weigh the Dwarapalaka idol plates and side pillars, take samples of the gold cladding to assess its purity, measure the surface area of the plates, and collect copper samples from the idols and temple door frames.

These samples will undergo scientific analyses, including electrical conductivity tests, spectroscopic evaluations, and microstructure examinations.

Originally, the tests were to be completed by November 15. However, after consulting the temple’s Thantri (chief priest), it was clarified that, according to temple rituals, Deva Anujna (divine permission) is required before any examination near the sanctum sanctorum. As a result, the tests are now scheduled for November 17, to be conducted after the Ucha Pooja and post temple closure at 1 pm.

The SIT’s investigation into the Sabarimala gold loss case aims to verify any discrepancies in the gold plating of the Dwarapalaka idols and temple structures. Since the probe began following reports in 2019, authorities have meticulously documented and collected physical evidence.

The move has been welcomed by officials, who hope to conclude the case with a clear, factual understanding. By combining ritual compliance with technical analysis, the SIT aims to advance the investigation into one of Kerala’s most high-profile temple controversies.