Kochi, June 30, 2026: The Sabarimala gold theft probe has widened after the Special Investigation Team informed the Kerala High Court that it had collected material against seven persons, including former Travancore Devaswom Board president P.S. Prasanth. The SIT report points to alleged criminal breach of trust, forgery and criminal conspiracy linked to the Dwarapalaka idols and related gold-plating work.
Sabarimala Gold Theft Probe Widens
The Kerala High Court has taken note of the SIT’s interim findings and directed the investigation team to move ahead with the probe. The case relates to alleged irregularities in the handling, transport and replating of gold-clad temple structures associated with the Sabarimala shrine.
According to the SIT report, the persons under the scanner include former Sabarimala executive officer Murari Babu, sponsor Unnikrishnan Potty, Smart Creations proprietor Pankaj Bhandari, former TDB president P.S. Prasanth, TDB member A. Ajikumar, Sabarimala Thantri Kandararu Rajeevaru and Thiruvabharanam Commissioner Rejilal.
The case has triggered concern among devotees over the safety and accountability of temple assets.
Dwarapalaka Idols Under Investigation
The investigation is linked to the gold-clad Dwarapalaka idols near the sanctum sanctorum. The SIT told the court that the idols were transported for replating, while records allegedly failed to properly reflect the nature and value of the temple assets.
Investigators are examining whether gold was misappropriated during the replating process and whether official records were altered or misrepresented. The SIT has also indicated that more material may be placed before the court as the probe progresses.
Court-Monitored Probe Continues
The Kerala High Court has asked the SIT to complete the investigation with seriousness and ensure that all those found responsible are brought before law. The court also noted that the role of more officials and associated persons may be examined based on the available evidence.
Expert reports from technical agencies are still awaited, and the matter is expected to come up again before the court in July.
P.S. Prasanth Denies Allegations
Former TDB president P.S. Prasanth has denied any role in the alleged misappropriation. He has maintained that he was not involved in any conspiracy and that the investigation should bring out the truth.
The next phase of the SIT probe will be closely watched as the case has raised larger questions about transparency, temple asset protection and accountability within temple administration.
