Thiruvananthapuram, September 30, 2025: In a landmark decision, the Kerala High Court has directed a detailed inventory of all valuables at Sabarimala temple, following a suo motu proceeding triggered by a report from the Chief Security and Vigilance Officer highlighting discrepancies in the gold-plated copper coverings of the Dwarapalaka idols.
The court has appointed retired Justice K.T. Sankaran to supervise the process, covering gold, silver, precious stones, and other antiquities. The goal is to create an accurate, digitized record to prevent misuse or pilferage, with the findings meant for internal safeguarding rather than public disclosure.
The court also reprimanded the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) for poor maintenance of records at the Sabarimala Sannidhanam. Crucial registers detailing the gold cladding of the idols, their pedestals (peedams), and sacred items were found missing. Entries for the kodimaram (flag mast) and other significant items, including gold quantities and installation dates, were absent, prompting the court to appoint a retired district judge to compile a verified inventory.
The directive emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in managing temple assets, ensuring that devotees’ offerings are preserved and protected for future generations.
