Fri Jan 16 15:04:54 UTC 2026: # Sabarimala Temple Gold Investigation Intensifies as Scientific Report Submitted

The Story:
A scientific analysis report on the gold used in the copper claddings of the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple was submitted to a vigilance court on January 16, 2026, as ordered by the Kerala High Court. The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) conducted the analysis. The report, submitted in a sealed envelope, will be handed over to the High Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) for further investigation into potential discrepancies in the gold’s purity or quantity after restoration work in 2019.

Meanwhile, Unnikrishnan Potti, the prime accused in the case, filed a fresh bail plea citing the SIT’s failure to file a chargesheet within the stipulated 90-day period. He faces charges related to the loss of gold from the Dwarapalaka idols and Sreekovil door frames and remains in judicial custody.

Key Points:

  • The VSSC submitted a scientific analysis report on Sabarimala temple gold to a vigilance court on January 16, 2026.
  • The analysis was ordered by the Kerala High Court to compare gold’s condition before and after 2019 restoration.
  • The SIT will receive the report for further investigation.
  • Unnikrishnan Potti, the prime accused, filed a new bail plea due to the SIT’s delayed chargesheet.
  • 12 people, including Mr. Potti and two former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) presidents, have been arrested so far.

Key Takeaways:

  • The submission of the scientific report marks a significant step forward in the Sabarimala temple gold investigation.
  • The legal process is ongoing, with the accused seeking bail and the SIT facing scrutiny over the timing of their chargesheet.
  • The involvement of the VSSC underscores the seriousness of the investigation and the need for scientific evidence.
  • The failure of the SIT to file a chargesheet within the stipulated time could provide an advantage to the accused.

Impact Analysis:

The Sabarimala gold investigation has far-reaching implications for the administration and management of temple assets in Kerala. The case has already led to the arrest of high-ranking officials, including former TDB presidents, highlighting potential systemic issues within the temple administration. The outcome of this investigation could lead to stricter regulations, enhanced auditing procedures, and increased transparency in the management of temple resources. The investigation’s resolution will likely influence public trust in religious institutions and their governance.

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