The Kerala High Court on Thursday (18 June) directed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged irregularities connected with the removal and gold-plating of the Dwarapalaka idols at the Sabarimala temple to submit a comprehensive report by June 29, 2026. The court said that while the investigation had made substantial progress, it could not be allowed to continue without a definite timeline.
Background of the Case
The matter is being monitored through a suo motu writ petition initiated in connection with allegations relating to the removal and transportation of the gold-cladded Dwarapalaka idols situated on either side of the Sreekovil at Sabarimala. The case concerns transactions linked to the gold-plating of the idols in 2025.
When the case came up before the Division Bench, SIT Investigating Officer Sri S. Sasidharan, IPS, appeared in person and submitted a progress report regarding the ongoing investigation.
A Bench comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K.V. Jayakumar examined the investigation materials placed before it. The court noted that after receiving scientific inputs from the National Metallurgical Laboratory, investigators narrowed their focus to transactions connected with the gold-plating process.
The Bench observed that records collected by the SIT revealed a sequence of events concerning the removal of the idols from the temple premises. According to the court, the investigation team had gathered significant material relating to the transactions under scrutiny.
The SIT also informed the court that it was examining the larger circumstances surrounding the transaction, including the role of certain officials who held responsible positions at the temple during the relevant period.
“The interests of justice demand that the investigation be concluded within a reasonable timeframe and with due expedition,” the Bench observed.
Recording the SIT's submission that the probe had reached its final stages, the High Court granted what it described as a final opportunity to the head of the investigation team.
The court directed that a detailed report be placed before it on or before June 29, 2026, outlining the involvement of the persons concerned, the role of officials and employees connected with the transactions, and the timeframe required for filing the final report before the jurisdictional court.
The matter has been posted for further consideration on June 29, 2026.
Case Details:
Case Title: Suo Motu v. State of Kerala & Others
Case Number: WP(C) No. 40608 of 2025
Judge: Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K.V. Jayakumar
Decision Date: June 18, 2026
