Sabarimala Temple Scientific Inspection: Devaswom Board Seeks Tantri’s Permission

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has approached the Travancore Devaswom Board, which in turn has sought formal permission from Tantri Mahesh Mohan to conduct a court-mandated scientific examination inside the Sabarimala Sannidhanam. This request marks a critical stage in the ongoing probe into alleged theft and replacement of sanctum metal layers.

Court-Ordered Examination Before December 15

The High Court had directed that a detailed scientific inspection of the sanctum components be completed before December 15, ahead of the temple reopening for the Sabarimala season on the 16th.

The examination focuses on:

• Dwarapalaka panel layers

• Kattillappali (wooden panel) coverings

• Copper sheets plated with gold during the Vijay Mallya period (1998-99)

Officials suspect that not only the gold layer but also the copper sheets beneath may have been removed during earlier restoration led by Unnikrishnan Potty.

Key Court-Directed Tests

The court highlighted five major points, including:

1. Checking the weight difference after removing Dwarapalaka and Kattillappali panels
2. Extracting a 1 cm sample from inside the panels
3. Conducting scientific tests such as:
• Chemical analysis
• Electrical conductivity test
• Spectroscopic examination
• Microscopic and micro-structure analysis

These tests aim to determine whether the original copper-and-gold layers were replaced with fake materials, strengthening the ongoing investigation.

SIT Awaits Tantri’s Approval

While the Devaswom Board has forwarded the request, Tantri Mahesh Mohan has not yet granted permission.
This delay is due to several sensitive ritualistic considerations:

• Any inspection inside the Sreekovil requires strict tantric procedures
• A Deva Prashnam (astrological ritual consultation) may be necessary
• There was earlier criticism from the Tantri Samajam regarding rapid re-installation of panels
• The temple is heading into the peak Sabarimala season, making dismantling work more complex

Ultimately, the Tantri’s approval is decisive even if the court has issued directives.

Scientific Tests Crucial for Fraud Confirmation

Investigators believe the scientific inspection is essential to:

• Confirm whether the original copper and gold layers were completely removed

• Establish whether the current materials are duplicates or counterfeit

• Strengthen legal action against those involved in the alleged fraud

The SIT maintains that only a scientific base can conclusively validate the suspicion of total duplication and large-scale misappropriation.

Time Running Out Ahead of Temple Opening

With the temple set to reopen on December 16, authorities face a tight window to complete the court-mandated procedures.
Given ritual constraints and the sensitive nature of the sacred space, it is uncertain whether the Tantri will grant immediate approval.

The SIT, however, asserts that the inspection is crucial and unavoidable for the integrity of the investigation.