Sabarimala Gold Plating Row: A Staggering Rs 100 Crore Racket Uncovered?

The revered Sabarimala Sreekovil, a beacon of faith for millions, now finds itself at the heart of a sensational controversy. Explosive claims by P. Unni, a sculptor intimately involved in the recent gold plating of the sanctum sanctorum, suggest that the ongoing investigation could unearth a staggering Rs 100 crore racket.

This revelation has sent shockwaves through devotee circles and raised serious questions about the integrity of temple administration.

Unni, a prominent figure in temple artistry from Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, has made a formal complaint to the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) Vigilance Department and the Kerala Chief Minister, detailing what he alleges is a massive scam.

His accusations point to a deeply entrenched conspiracy involving top officials and contractors, aimed at siphoning off substantial funds under the guise of renovation.

According to Unni, the gold plating work, originally estimated at a fraction of the current alleged scam, was marred by severe irregularities.

He claims that only 8.5 kg of actual gold was used for the plating, a stark contrast to the 30 kg that was reportedly paid for. The difference, he alleges, was brazenly replaced with copper, significantly compromising the quality and longevity of the sacred structure. This raises a critical question: where did the remaining 21.5 kg of gold, and the funds allocated for it, disappear?

The sculptor’s complaint specifically names a prominent politician and a former executive officer of the TDB, implicating them in the alleged illicit dealings.

He asserts that he possesses crucial evidence, including records of gold purchases and technical specifications, to substantiate his claims. Unni’s detailed account suggests that the scam extends beyond mere material substitution, hinting at inflated costs and misappropriated funds across various stages of the project.

This is not the first time such allegations have surfaced.

Unni had previously voiced concerns about the quality of work in 2018. However, his pleas largely went unheard, only to resurface with greater intensity now, fueled by what he describes as undeniable proof of foul play. The TDB had awarded the gold plating work to a Chennai-based firm, but Unni’s involvement as a consultant put him in a unique position to observe the alleged irregularities firsthand.

The vigilance investigation initiated by the TDB, spurred by Unni’s detailed complaint, is expected to delve deep into the financial transactions and material procurement related to the gold plating.

Should Unni’s allegations prove true, it would expose one of the largest financial scandals to ever hit a temple administration in Kerala, potentially leading to widespread arrests and a significant loss of public trust. The unfolding drama at Sabarimala threatens to tarnish the sanctity of the shrine, demanding swift and decisive action from authorities to restore faith and uphold justice.