Vigilance Bureau Finds No Criminal Misappropriation in Sabarimala Temple Flag Mast Gold Donations
In a significant development, the Kerala High Court has granted additional time to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conclude its investigation into allegations concerning the gold plating of Dwarapalaka idols and the collection of gold donations for the temple flag mast. The decision was made due to the pending chemical analysis report from the National Metallurgical Laboratory, which is crucial for the investigation's conclusion.
On 26th March 2026, the court, presided by Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V. and K.V. Jayakumar, reviewed the progress report submitted by the SIT and expressed satisfaction with the systematic progress of the investigation. The SIT, led by Investigating Officer Sri. S. Sasidharan, IPS, has been diligently working to uncover the truth behind the allegations. The samples collected from various temple sites were forwarded to the National Metallurgical Laboratory for scientific analysis, with results expected by the end of April 2026.
The court acknowledged the SIT's efforts, noting that 358 witnesses have been examined across multiple locations, including temples in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The investigation into the gold plating of Dwarapalaka idols is ongoing, with 20 witnesses examined in detail so far.
In a related matter, the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) conducted a preliminary enquiry into the alleged misappropriation of gold donations intended for the Sabarimala Temple flag mast installation in 2017. The enquiry, directed by the Kerala High Court, found no material suggesting criminal misappropriation or breach of trust. The VACB's report revealed discrepancies in the documented and actual gold donations, but concluded that no criminal activities were involved.
The court has accepted the VACB's findings and directed the closure of proceedings related to the flag mast donations. The SIT is expected to present its final report post-analysis on 18th May 2026, marking a crucial step towards resolving the temple gold plating controversy.
Bottom Line:
Investigation and Vigilance Enquiry - Extension of time granted to Special Investigation Team due to delay in receiving laboratory report for conclusive investigation.
Statutory provision(s): Criminal Investigation and Vigilance Enquiry.
