Sabarimala's Stone Guardians: A Web of Conspiracy Unravels Amidst Accusations

The serene precincts of Sabarimala, revered by millions, have recently become the epicentre of a swirling controversy surrounding the installation and alleged desecration of 'Dwarapalaka' (divine guardian) statues. What began as an act of devotion has rapidly escalated into a full-blown political and religious row, with the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and a state minister boldly alleging a deep-seated conspiracy to undermine their integrity.

At the heart of the storm are two stone 'Dwarapalaka' statues placed at the Sannidhanam.

Shortly after their appearance, one of the statues was reportedly damaged or removed, igniting a firestorm of accusations. K Ananthagopan, the President of the TDB, along with Minister K Radhakrishnan, have unequivocally pointed fingers at a concerted effort to tarnish the image of the TDB and the current state government.

They contend that the incident is far from accidental, rather a calculated move designed to create unnecessary controversy and defame the responsible authorities.

Minister Radhakrishnan didn't mince words, asserting that certain groups are relentlessly attempting to sully the government's reputation.

He vehemently clarified that neither the government nor the TDB played any part in the damage or removal of the statue, effectively dismissing any direct culpability. This strong denial underpins their theory of an external, malicious agenda at play.

Adding layers to this intricate saga is Ramesan from Vadakkencherry, the sponsor of the statues.

He finds himself in the eye of the storm, vehemently defending his actions and denying any involvement in a conspiracy. Ramesan insists that he meticulously obtained all necessary permissions from the TDB for the installation of two 'Dwarapalaka' statues. He claims to have acted purely out of devotion, having personally funded the project.

According to Ramesan, the damage to one statue was promptly reported to the police, and he even undertook its temporary removal for repair. He expresses deep hurt and bewilderment at the accusations levelled against him, particularly the insinuation of political motives.

However, the TDB offers a starkly different narrative regarding the sponsor's intentions and actions.

TDB President Ananthagopan revealed that permission was explicitly granted for only two statues, challenging earlier reports suggesting four. He further alleged that Ramesan attempted to install two additional statues without authorisation, a move thwarted by the TDB. Ananthagopan also highlighted a significant discrepancy in Ramesan's initial statements, where he first denied being the benefactor, only to later admit his sponsorship.

This inconsistency, according to the TDB, fuels their suspicion.

The TDB president went on to accuse the sponsor of fabricating claims that the TDB itself had removed the statues, a statement he believes was designed to provoke public outrage and sow discord. He did not shy away from suggesting that Ramesan might be an unwitting "tool" in a much larger, insidious conspiracy.

To unearth the truth, the TDB has filed a formal police complaint, and a rigorous inquiry by its Vigilance wing is now actively underway.

As the investigation unfolds, the Sabarimala 'Dwarapalaka' episode transcends a mere incident of property damage. It has evolved into a high-stakes battle of narratives, pitting the TDB and government against a sponsor who claims pure devotion, all while the shadow of an alleged conspiracy looms large over the sacred hill shrine.