Tue Sep 16 16:13:26 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text and a rewritten version as a news article:
**Summary:**
The Supreme Court has sharply questioned the Tamil Nadu government about 41 missing files related to investigations into the theft of temple idols. The court expressed concern over the state’s responsibility in protecting its cultural heritage and demanded answers about the circumstances surrounding the files’ disappearance. The case originated from a petition alleging a conspiracy involving police, bureaucrats, and an “idol mafia” to cover up the theft of valuable historical artifacts. Some idols and FIRs have been recovered/registered in relation to the case.
**News Article:**
**Supreme Court Demands Answers in Tamil Nadu Idol Theft Investigation, Questions Missing Files**
**NEW DELHI, September 16, 2025** – The Supreme Court today grilled the Tamil Nadu government over the disappearance of 41 crucial files pertaining to investigations into the theft of priceless temple idols. The court voiced serious concerns regarding the state’s responsibility in safeguarding its cultural heritage, demanding a thorough explanation for the missing documents.
A bench headed by Justice B.V. Nagarathna, with Justice R. Mahadevan presiding, questioned senior advocate Sanjay Hegde, representing the Tamil Nadu government, about the missing files. Justice Mahadevan stated, “It is the responsibility of the State to protect the culture.” He further inquired about the registration of FIRs related to the missing files, hinting at the possibility of summoning the Chief Secretary if answers are not provided.
The court’s scrutiny stems from a petition filed by advocate Elephant Rajendran, alleging a conspiracy behind the disappearance of the files, which reportedly contain information on stolen antique idols, artifacts, and jewels. The petition accuses higher police officers, bureaucrats, and an “idol mafia” of orchestrating a cover-up.
The Supreme Court Justices raised pointed questions about the circumstances of the files’ disappearance, with Justice Nagarathna asking whether fires had destroyed the files in 38 different police stations, or whether there had been a circular to destroy the files.
While Mr. Hegde informed the court that some of the files had been reconstructed and 11 FIRs registered, the court remained insistent on a full accounting. Mr. Rajendran’s petition cited a 2019 Madras High Court observation emphasizing Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural heritage and the historical significance of its temple idols, some dating back millennia. The case highlights the ongoing struggle to protect India’s cultural treasures from theft and illicit trade.
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