Sun Oct 12 19:46:21 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewrite as a news article:

**Summary:**

The Left Democratic Front (LDF) government in Kerala, India, attempted to regain popularity with Hindu voters by organizing a “Global Ayyappa Sangamam” (a gathering for Sabarimala devotees). This move, seen by some as opportunistic, initially seemed to work, garnering support from Hindu community organizations. However, a scandal erupted when it was discovered that gold plating on temple idols was missing, sparking allegations of theft and cover-up. The controversy has implicated officials, including past presidents of the Travancore Devaswom Board, and thrown the government into disarray. Hindu organizations that initially supported the LDF are now facing backlash, while the opposition parties are demanding investigations and resignations. This scandal highlights the ongoing tension between faith and politics in Kerala.

**News Article:**

**Kerala Government Embroiled in Sabarimala Temple Scandal**

*The Hindu, October 13, 2025*

**THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:** The Kerala government is facing a major crisis following allegations of theft and mismanagement at the Sabarimala Ayyappan temple. The scandal, involving missing gold plating from temple idols, has sparked outrage and accusations of a cover-up.

The controversy erupted shortly after the government, led by the Left Democratic Front (LDF), organized the “Global Ayyappa Sangamam,” an event aimed at reconnecting with Hindu devotees after facing criticism for its handling of previous temple-related issues. The event was initially viewed as a successful attempt to rebuild trust with key community organizations.

However, the discovery of the missing gold plating has triggered a political storm. The Kerala High Court has ordered a detailed investigation, and a Special Investigation Team is conducting an inquiry. Several officials of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), including former presidents appointed by the LDF, are under scrutiny.

The opposition parties, including the United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have seized the opportunity to criticize the government. The Congress party has demanded the resignation of the Devaswom Minister.

Even Hindu organizations that initially supported the government’s efforts are now facing pressure to distance themselves. The Nair Service Society (NSS), a prominent Hindu organization, is grappling with internal criticism for its initial support of the LDF. The SNDP Yogam, another influential group, has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the alleged irregularities.

This scandal underscores the complex relationship between faith and politics in Kerala and highlights the challenges faced by the government in managing the affairs of the iconic Sabarimala temple. The outcome of the investigations could have significant political ramifications for the LDF government.

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