The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has taken swift action, suspending B. Murari Babu from his duties. This decision follows allegations that in June 2019, while serving as the Sabarimala Administrative Officer, he submitted a report to the Sabarimala Executive Officer that inaccurately described the gold-plated ‘Dwarapalaka’ sculptures flanking the shrine’s entrance as merely copper plates. An investigation into this matter is currently underway.
During a meeting held on Tuesday to address the issue, the board categorized Mr. Babu’s actions as a “serious lapse.” At present, Mr. Babu holds the position of Deputy Devaswom Commissioner in Haripad.
Babu Asserts Adherence to Proper Procedures
Addressing the media, Mr. Babu offered his perspective, explaining that his report accurately reflected the sculptures as copper because copper was, in fact, the foundational metal beneath the gold plating. “If I had described them as ‘gold,’ it would have implied they were entirely made of gold, which was not the case,” he stated. He emphasized that all established procedures were meticulously followed, and his submission was merely a preliminary report. He noted that the final decision was made after review by higher authorities and technical experts. Expressing his acceptance of the board’s decision, Mr. Babu highlighted his 30 years of dedicated service to the Devaswom Board.