Kochi: In a significant setback to the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), the Kerala High Court has directed that the gold-plated panels removed from the 'Dwarapalaka' (guardian) sculptures at the entrance of Sabarimala’s sanctum sanctorum and transported to Chennai must be returned immediately.
The court issued the directive while considering a petition challenging the removal of the panels for repair work. Expressing clear dissatisfaction, the bench criticised the TDB for bypassing established judicial directions.
A report filed by the Special Commissioner revealed that the gold plating was removed without prior court approval, violating earlier directives that all work involving gold at the shrine should be carried out only at the Sannidhanam and strictly under court-appointed supervision. The Special Commissioner described the lapse as a serious breach of protocol.
The development has sparked fresh controversy over temple administration. TDB President P.S. Prashanth defended the move, stating that the decision had the consent of the temple Thantri (chief priest).
“The sculptures had visible tarnish, scratches, and even cracks on the legs. Repairs were urgent ahead of the upcoming Mandalam season. The removal was carried out in the presence of the Thiruvabharanam Commissioner and Vigilance officials,” Prashanth said.
The controversy has also reignited debates over the economic value of aged gold. Some experts argue that exposure to environmental elements can enhance its worth, raising concerns that even if the same weight of gold is returned, hidden financial benefits could accrue.
This is not the first instance of scrutiny at Sabarimala. Allegations of irregularities had earlier arisen when the temple roof was dismantled and re-plated with gold, with critics questioning the transparency in managing temple assets.
With the High Court now demanding the immediate return of the panels and scheduling further hearings, the episode has once again placed the TDB’s decisions under intense legal and public scrutiny.
With IANS inputs