|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Sabarimala Temple Scandal News
Kerala: A puzzling development has stirred both devotees and investigators around the sacred Sabarimala shrine: metallic panels, once gold-plated under a project linked to businessman Vijay Mallya, are now showing signs of copper. The transformation has triggered fresh controversy in the aftermath of the ongoing probe into missing gold artifacts at the temple.
The original gold plating, reportedly sponsored through a trust linked to Mallya, was intended to beautify the temple premises. But as temple authorities and forensic experts examine the site, parts of those panels are now revealing a reddish, copper-like hue casting doubt on whether the gold layer ever stood the test of time.
From Gold to Copper: What Changed?
The shift from gleaming gold to tarnished copper has raised serious questions:
- Was it genuine gold all along? Some insiders suggest that the gold layer might have been extremely thin or only surface-coated, exposing the underlying copper base when subjected to wear, weather, or tampering.
- Could it be deliberate removal? Others suspect that gold might have been stripped long ago, and what remains is a copper core that is now becoming visible.
- Was there deception from the start? Allegations are surfacing that some elements were never truly gold-plated, but merely masqueraded as such for appearances.
Investigators are likely to subject these panels to metallurgical testing spectroscopy, chemical assays, and microscopic scans to ascertain their true composition and whether material was lost or replaced.
Key Suspect and Tangential Links
A central figure in the maze is Unnikrishnan Potti, a Bengaluru-based Malayali who stands accused of removing or trafficking some of the original panels. Reports suggest that he transported certain panels to the Chennai residence of actor Jayaram, which has complicated the trail and added a dramatic overlay to the case.
While investigators are probing Potti’s role, they are also trying to piece together whether the panels at Sabarimala underwent degradation naturally, or whether clandestine replacements occurred at various points.
Wider Implications & Stakeholder Reactions
This isn’t just a matter of aesthetic alteration. The symbolism is potent: a sacred site, cherished by millions, being embroiled in allegations of misappropriation and deceit.
- Devotees have expressed anger and disillusionment, demanding swift, transparent action and recovery of any missing gold.
- Temple authorities are scrambling to reassure the public and cooperating with law enforcement and geological experts.
- Political leaders and watchdogs are watching closely, seeing potential for accountability or scandal depending on what emerges from the investigations.
The controversy also poses reputational risks for any organizations or donors associated with the original gold plating especially if wrongdoing is confirmed.
What Lies Ahead
In the coming days:
- Independent Forensic Analysis — Experts will conduct chemical and structural tests on the transformed panels to determine whether it’s surface erosion, peeling of a gold layer, or a complete swap.
- Tracing the Removed Artifacts — The case of missing gold elements remains open; investigators will probe links, custody chains, and suspect movement.
- Public Disclosure & Accountability — With rising public interest, police and temple committees may be pressed to release their findings and name responsible parties.
- Repairs & Preventive Measures — To restore faith, authorities may consider renewed plating (with verified quality), improved surveillance, and stricter oversight of temple art projects.
Parting Thoughts:
What began as a mystery of missing gold has spiraled into an even stranger spectacle of gold-plated panels that are turning copper. If found to be a case of deliberate tampering or fraud, the revelations could rock the custodianship of Sabarimala and raise uneasy questions about the sanctity of temple restoration efforts.
