The Kerala High Court on Monday directed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into alleged irregularities concerning the gold-plated copper plates that adorn the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols at Sabarimala temple.

Justice issued a mandate appointing ADGP H. Venkatesh to lead the investigative team.  The case stemmed from claims that during restoration works carried out in 2019 and 2025, gold-clad panels removed and sent to workshops in Chennai and Hyderabad had discrepancies in weight and gold content.

Petitioners allege that the panels were mishandled and that the material returned did not match expectations, prompting concerns of misappropriation or dilution.  The High Court’s order aims to bring clarity and accountability, ensuring that no temple property is unduly compromised.