Home / Crime and Justice / Court Greenlights Sample Collection in Sabarimala Gold Probe
Court Greenlights Sample Collection in Sabarimala Gold Probe
8 Jun
Summary
- SIT can now dismantle Prabhamandalam plates and door-frame for gold analysis.
- Experts will assist in collecting samples to determine exact gold weight.
- Chemical 'stripping salt' used in 2019 for gold plating is under investigation.
The Kerala High Court has granted special permission for the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to dismantle temple artefacts, including the Prabhamandalam plates and the upper door-frame of the sreekovil. This decision, made on Monday, allows for the collection of additional samples with the assistance of experts for laboratory analysis.
The court emphasized that this action is essential for conclusively ascertaining the full truth behind the alleged gold heist at the Sabarimala temple. The SIT had previously faced difficulties in dismantling the items due to objections from skilled workers and other quarters, hindering the determination of the exact weight and gold cladding quantity.
Furthermore, the court referenced a report from the National Metallurgical Laboratory concerning scientific tests on gold loss. It was noted that in 2019, a Chennai-based company used 'stripping salt' to remove gold cladding. A sample of this chemical has been sent for analysis, with results pending.
The SIT also updated the court on the investigation into the removal and disposal of dwarapalaka coverings in 2025, indicating that a final report could be filed soon. The matter has been adjourned to June 18.
