Thiruvananthapuram: The special investigation team (SIT) probing the alleged gold theft case at Sabarimala carried out a fresh inspection at Sannidhanam on Sunday, assisted by a team of experts, following special permission granted by the high court.
Background of the Fresh Inspection
The inspection was conducted after concerns were raised that experts were not present when samples were collected during an earlier round of evidence gathering. Acting on the high court’s directives, the SIT returned to the temple with specialists to ensure greater accuracy and scientific scrutiny of evidence. The fresh examination coincided with the opening of the temple for Mithunam monthly pujas.
Details of the Examination
The team examined the temple’s prabhamandalam and the lower portion of the gold-plated kattalappadi structure after carefully removing sections of gold plating. Sources indicated that no fresh samples were expected to be collected during the exercise. Instead, the SIT planned to conduct detailed examinations on-site in the presence of experts after removing the gold sheets, in line with high court directives.
Timing and Practical Considerations
The inspection began soon after the temple opened around 5 am. Officials are understood to have chosen the temple opening period for the exercise, as carrying out such an inspection at any other time would have posed significant practical difficulties. The temple will remain open until Friday night.
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