Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) State president Rajeev Chandrasekhar has approached the Kerala High Court, seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged misappropriation of gold from the Sabarimala temple.
Referring to a report of a Special Commissioner for Sabarimala regarding the ‘removal’ of gold coverings over the ‘Dwarapalakas’ on both sides of the sanctum sanctorum, he said that the coverings were removed in 2019, but a mahazar prepared for the same referred to them as copper sheets. As the original gold plates were replaced with gold-plated ones, they developed discolouration, necessitating immediate action to cover up the ‘theft’ committed earlier.
Subsequently, it is apprehended that the plates were taken to Chennai and replaced with new ones plated with gold. This was done without seeking the High Court’s permission. In addition, it is surprising that the gold coverings needed repair within 10 years, he said, adding that the gold taken away from the temple was ‘disbursed’ in different States. Several persons and establishments from different States were involved (in this).
Audit procedures
This may hinder the effectiveness of the ongoing investigation. Therefore, a Central agency like the CBI would help with a comprehensive investigation, Mr. Chandrasekhar said in his plea.
He further said that even the independence envisaged in the audit procedures have been surrendered to the government, since the audit was carried out by a branch which is under the government’s control.
Published – December 01, 2025 07:38 pm IST
