Thiruvananthapuram: The planned exhumation of the body of Gopan Swami (69), who was entombed in a 'samadhi' by his family in Neyyattinkara, has been temporarily halted following strong protests by the family and a section of locals. The Sub-Collector of Thiruvananthapuram, Alfred OV, is set to hold discussions with the family to resolve the matter. The protesters are also likely to participate in the talks.

The proceedings to exhume the body was halted as the authorities felt that the ongoing protests may become uncontrollable and may lead to more trouble. 

The protest erupted on Monday when the police arrived at the site to open the concrete chamber and conduct a post-mortem. Gopan Swami’s family, supported by locals and organizations like the Hindu Aikya Vedi and VSDP, blocked the proceedings. His wife, Sulochana, and children staged a sit-in near the tomb, vehemently opposing any attempt to dismantle it.

The family maintains that Gopan Swami passed away on Thursday morning and was entombed according to his wishes. According to the family, they placed his remains in the tomb soon after his passing. However, Gopan’s son, Rajasenan, later revised his statement to the police, asserting that his father had requested to be entombed in this manner. As the priest of the family temple, Rajasenan claimed the rituals were performed in accordance with Gopan’s instructions.