VSSC Scientific Report on Sabarimala Gold Theft Handed to Special Investigation Team
The scientific examination results from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) concerning the Sabarimala gold theft case have been officially handed over to the special investigation team (SIT). This crucial development occurred on Saturday, marking a significant step forward in the ongoing probe.
Court Submission and Upcoming High Court Report
Authorities submitted the VSSC results to the Kollam vigilance court in a sealed cover on Friday. The scientific investigation report will now be included in the progress report scheduled for submission to the high court on January 19. This inclusion underscores the report's importance in shaping the investigation's future direction.
Purpose and Scope of the VSSC Examination
The SIT conducted the scientific examination to address several key questions. Investigators aimed to determine whether the gold sheets at Sabarimala were replaced, assess whether the existing sheets are old or new, and find out the exact quantity of gold present in the sheets. The VSSC report contains results from scientific tests performed on 15 samples. These samples include the dwarapalaka sculpture, wooden planks, and other components linked to the alleged scam. The examination also covered copper sheets that were coated with gold.
Investigators are heavily relying on this report to determine the extent of gold loss. Key questions expected to be answered include whether the original gold-coated plates were removed, whether new plates were installed and coated with gold, and whether the old plates remain intact and secure.
Related Developments in the Investigation
In a related development, former devaswom board member K P Shankaradas, who is currently in remand, was shifted to the cardiology department of Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital. He had been staying at a private hospital in the state capital. Additionally, reports indicate that the SIT plans to issue notices for questioning to former Travancore Devaswom Board members K Raghavan and Ajay Tharayil. This questioning relates to the probe concerning the replacement of the Sabarimala flagstaff.
The flagstaff replacement occurred in 2017 when Prayar Gopalakrishnan served as the board president. After the old flagstaff was replaced, the 'vaji vahanam' (horse effigy), which was part of the flagstaff, was allegedly handed over to tanthri Kandararu Rajeevaru. The SIT successfully recovered the vaji vahanam during a raid conducted at Rajeevaru's house.
