Pathanamthitta (Kerala): The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged disappearance of gold plating from Sabarimala’s Dwarapalaka idols arrived at the hill shrine on Sunday to carry out a detailed scientific examination, police officials confirmed.

As per the Kerala High Court’s directive, the scientific assessment will take place on Monday after 1 pm, following the completion of the 'Deva Anujna' (divine permission) rituals. The investigation team, led by DySP S Sasidharan, reached Pampa on Sunday morning. Forensic specialists — including chemical analysts — will join the examination team, officials said.

The SIT is expected to remain at Sannidhanam overnight to complete the process by Monday.

Earlier, the SIT had approached the High Court seeking approval to scientifically test the Dwarapalaka idols to determine the extent of the gold plating loss first reported in 2019. The court authorised the team to weigh the guardian deity’s idol plates and the side pillar plates. It also instructed investigators to collect samples of the gold cladding to analyse purity and quality, measure the plates’ surface area, and obtain copper samples from the plates and door frames.

These materials must undergo advanced scientific tests, including electrical conductivity checks, spectroscopic analysis and microstructure evaluation.

Although the SIT had initially planned to complete the tests by November 15 — ahead of the Sabarimala pilgrimage season — the Thanthri (Chief Priest) advised that the procedures should only be conducted after the rituals seeking divine permission. Acting on this suggestion, the High Court directed that the examination be carried out after Ucha Pooja and the temple’s closure at 1 pm on Monday.

PTI