Gold-plated claddings not removed during my tenure: Ex-TDB prez

Thiruvananthapuram

Former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president N Vasu on Tuesday clarified that the gold-plated claddings of the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols at Sabarimala were not removed for repair during his tenure.

Speaking to reporters, he also denied any connection with businessman Unnikrishnan Potty, who sponsored the gold-plating works at the temple. Vasu added that he never found it necessary to check whether the idols were properly gold-plated or if any gold was missing.

His remarks came in response to queries about an email Potty sent to him on December 9, 2019. In the email, Potty claimed he had leftover gold after completing the work on the main door of Sreekovil and Dwarapalaka idols and suggested it be used for supporting a girl’s marriage, in coordination with the TDB. The Kerala High Court recently referred to this email, describing it as “deeply disturbing” and indicative of serious impropriety, showing that certain officials had allegedly acted in collusion with Potty, compromising both temple property and devotees’ trust.

The High Court has directed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe irregularities related to a reported reduction of about 4.5 kg in the gold-clad copper plates of the Dwarapalaka idols. This discrepancy came to light during proceedings over the recent gold-plating, which was carried out without informing the court.

Last week, the court also ordered a comprehensive inventory of all valuables, including gold, at Sabarimala, to be conducted under the supervision of retired Justice K. T. Sankaran, aiming to ensure transparency and safeguard temple property against future irregularities.