A significant event unfolded at the revered Sabarimala Ayyappa temple this Saturday as retired Kerala High Court judge K.T. Sankaran commenced the court-ordered appraisal of all the temple’s invaluable possessions. His visit marks a crucial step in ensuring transparency and accurate documentation of the sacred treasures.
Justice Sankaran, who arrived in Pampa late Friday, embarked on the spiritual trek to the temple early Saturday morning, reaching the shrine around 8 a.m. He was accompanied by key officials from the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), including the esteemed Thiruvabharanam Commissioner and a skilled goldsmith. Together, this team is diligently examining the temple’s strongroom, meticulously cataloging its contents to compile a comprehensive and detailed inventory.
Following the completion of procedures at Sabarimala, Justice Sankaran’s appraisal will extend to the TDB’s primary strongroom located in Aranmula, scheduled for inspection on Monday.
Judicial Oversight and Accountability
The recommendation for Justice Sankaran’s appointment to this critical task came from a High Court Bench comprising Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V. and K.V. Jayakumar. Upon the thorough completion of this extensive appraisal, Justice Sankaran is slated to submit his detailed report directly to the High Court, ensuring full judicial oversight.
In a related development, TDB president P.S. Prasanth announced that disciplinary actions are underway against nine officials implicated by the board’s Vigilance wing. These actions stem from an investigation into reported gold losses at the Sabarimala temple, highlighting the board’s commitment to accountability.
Addressing reporters, Mr. Prasanth confirmed that measures have already been initiated against B. Murari Babu, the Deputy Devaswom Commissioner (Haripad) and former administrative officer. “Our Vigilance team has pinpointed lapses involving nine officials. We’ve taken action against Mr. Babu, and decisions regarding the remaining officials will be finalized at Tuesday’s board meeting,” he stated.
Among those expected to face action are TDB secretary Jayashree, executive officer Sudheesh, administrative officer Sreekumar, and former Thiruvabharanam Commissioner K.S. Baiju. Mr. Prasanth specifically noted, “The officer who succeeded Mr. Baiju was fully aware of the reduction in gold weight but failed to report it.”
Historical Context: The 2019 Directive
Mr. Prasanth further elaborated on a 2019 board order, which stipulated that the revered Dwarapalaka plates were to be managed under the direct supervision of the Thiruvabharanam Commissioner, with Unnikrishnan Potty assigned specific responsibility and sponsorship for their care.
Looking ahead, Mr. Prasanth also shared updates on the ongoing preparations for the upcoming Sabarimala pilgrimage season, expressing expectations of welcoming approximately 60 lakh devotees this year.