After gold theft, Sabarimala staff under scanner for financial misappropriation

The Kerala High Court has ordered a fresh investigation into suspected financial irregularities involving casual labourers and permanent staff deployed at Sannidhanam during the Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season 2025–2026.

The direction follows a report submitted by the Sabarimala Special Commissioner flagging alleged suspicious financial transactions by employees engaged at the hill shrine during the peak season.

The court has directed the Travancore Devaswom Board’s Vigilance Officer to examine whether any temporary, casual or permanent employees on duty at Sannidhanam were involved in fraudulent activity or suspicious fund transfers.

VIGILANCE ENQUIRY FLAGS MONEY ORDER TRANSFERS

According to the report, a discreet vigilance enquiry was initiated based on information received from the Sabarimala Executive Officer.

The enquiry found that 14.08 lakh was transferred through money orders from the post office within a short span during the pilgrimage season. Five employees reportedly made remittances exceeding 25,000 each. One employee from Pathanamthitta allegedly remitted 1.38 lakh.

Despite being directed to appear for questioning, the individuals concerned did not comply, the report said.

The Travancore Devaswom Board informed the court that it would lodge a complaint with Sannidhanam police seeking a criminal investigation.

SIT COLLECTS FRESH SAMPLES IN GOLD LOSS CASE

Separately, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged loss of gold from temple artefacts began fresh sample collection at Sabarimala on Thursday after securing permission from the Kerala High Court.

Led by SP S. Sasidharan, the team removed portions of gold-plated covering from the Sreekovil and related structures for advanced scientific examination. The SIT plans to conduct specialised metallurgical tests, including XRF, ICP-MS and OES, through premier national laboratories.

The High Court has directed the SIT to file a report by February 19 detailing the samples collected and the agencies entrusted with analysis, observing that scientific examination is essential given the seriousness of the allegations.

- Ends

With agency inputs

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