High Court Suspects Gold Plates Swapped; More Arrests Possible in Sabarimala Gold Theft

The Kerala High Court has expressed strong suspicion that the gold plates at Sabarimala might have been swapped. The court observed that the inspection report strengthens this suspicion and directed that detailed statements be recorded from the VSSC officials who conducted the inspection. To clarify whether the plates were replaced, a scientific examination must be conducted along with recording the officials’ statements. The court also noted that more accused individuals may need to be arrested in connection with the case. The Special Investigation Team’s (SIT) interim report was submitted to the High Court.

An inspection is necessary to ascertain whether the gold plates are new or old. The court granted permission to the SIT to conduct another inspection on January 20. The High Court allowed for the measurement and examination of the door panel and other elements. The case is scheduled to be heard again on February 9.

The SIT’s inspection will take place at Sannidhanam on Tuesday. The decision also includes examining the old door. The VSSC inspection report is technical in nature, and the High Court clarified that detailed information about the scientific examination cannot be publicly released. More clarity is required on the matter, and for this, further explanation must be sought from the officials who conducted the inspection. The court also stated that advice from other technical experts can be sought if necessary.

The High Court stated that the findings in the documents are serious and alarming. The court indicated that this is a sign of an organized theft of Devaswom (temple board) property. There is also suspicion that those entrusted with protecting temple property may have orchestrated or participated in the plunder.

Currently, statements from 202 witnesses have been recorded. The court stated that the modus operandi of the crime has been scientifically revealed. The links in the decision-making process for the gold theft have been identified, which includes individual responsibility and criminal liability. Evidence, including melted gold, also needs to be recovered.