As the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Sabarimala gold theft case prepares to inform the Kerala High Court on Monday about a crucial VSSC scientific report, media reports on Sunday claimed the analysis (VSSC) found a significant discrepancy in the quantity of gold at the Sabarimala temple.

Media reports cite VSSC findings ahead of court submission

According to media reports, VSSC analysis has found a major reduction in the quantity of gold on the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols and related copper claddings at the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala.

The reports said the analysis showed a clear mismatch between the weight of gold plated on the Dwarapalaka idols in 1998 and the present quantity. The shortfall was reportedly higher on the guardian deity idols.

Media reports further said that gold loss was also detected on wooden panels and Dwarapalaka plates that were taken for restoration by prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti and later returned.

The discrepancy reportedly emerged when samples taken from these structures were compared with other gold-plated copper sheets dating back to 1998. 

Scientific report based on 15 samples

The scientific report is based on the examination of 15 samples, including those taken from the Dwarapalaka idols and wooden panels. It assesses both the quantity and the age of the gold present on the copper claddings.

The sealed-cover report was submitted by the VSSC to the Kollam Vigilance Court and was handed over to the SIT on Saturday. The SIT is expected to place the report, along with its conclusions, before the Kerala High Court on Monday.

Probe focuses on missing original gold

The VSSC report is key to determining whether the gold currently present on the temple structures is original or newly replaced, and to establishing what happened to the original gold.

Earlier reports had also raised suspicions of possible links to an international antiquities mafia. The court had earlier flagged the possibility of a ‘Kapoor model’ theft (referring to Kapoor, a US-based art thief who smuggled stolen ancient idols, particularly from India, across the world)

Media reports noted that the gold originally installed before Lord Ayyappa carried exceptional value due to its age, far beyond that of ordinary gold.