In a significant development, former Kerala High Court judge K.T. Sankaran recently embarked on a crucial mission to meticulously appraise all the precious valuables held within the sacred Sabarimala Ayyappa temple. His visit to the revered hill shrine took place on Saturday, October 11, 2025.
Arriving in Pampa late on Friday, October 10, Mr. Sankaran began his ascent to the temple early Saturday morning, around 8 a.m. He was joined by key officials from the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), along with a skilled goldsmith, forming a specialized team. Their primary task at Sabarimala is to thoroughly inspect the temple’s strongroom and compile an exhaustive inventory of all the items stored within.
Following the completion of these vital procedures at Sabarimala, officials confirmed that Judge Sankaran’s appraisal efforts would continue. His next stop is scheduled for Monday, October 13, 2025, where he will examine the main strongroom of the Travancore Devaswom Board located in Aranmula.
Awaiting the Court’s Report
This significant assignment was initiated upon the recommendation of a High Court Bench comprising Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V. and K.V. Jayakumar. Once the comprehensive appraisal is finalized, Judge Sankaran will directly present his findings and report to the High Court.
This detailed inspection follows a previous directive from the High Court for an inquiry into a reported reduction in the weight of the gold-clad copper plates adorning the idols of Dwarapalaka (guardian deities). Furthermore, on Friday, the court issued instructions to the State police to formally register a criminal case regarding the alleged gold misappropriation from the revered shrine and to launch a thorough investigation into the matter.