Sabarimala: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the gold theft case at the Sabarimala temple has initiated a court-ordered scientific examination at the hill shrine’s Sannidhanam. The SIT collected samples on Monday from the sanctum sanctorum’s Dwarapalaka sculpture and the gold-plated wooden door structure as part of a detailed forensic probe.

The investigation team, led by DySP S Sasidharan, conducted the testing after obtaining the necessary divine permissions and after temple rituals concluded in the afternoon. Forensic experts joined SIT officials to carefully weigh, measure and collect samples from the gold layers on the Dwarapalaka idols and the temple doors.

These historic temple fixtures, known for their heavy gold cladding, are at the centre of the case due to suspected gold pilferage during maintenance work. Earlier audits revealed that the amount of gold plating, originally over 2.5 kg in the late 1990s, was significantly reduced in recent evaluations.

The SIT’s scientific analyses will include tests for gold purity, thickness measurements, and microscopic inspection to confirm any irregularities or tampering. This forensic phase is expected to provide crucial evidence on how much gold was lost, when the theft may have occurred, and if the current fittings are the originals.

The case gained momentum after the Kerala High Court highlighted irregularities and mandated the SIT to undertake this technical examination. The probe continues in close coordination with the temple authorities and the Travancore Devaswom Board, ensuring religious protocols are maintained.