Published May 29, 2026 | 11:38 PM ⚊ Updated May 29, 2026 | 11:38 PM
A night view of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvanathapuram. (Supplied)
Synopsis: Temple authorities also rejected claims that 72 grams of gold received as offerings were unaccounted for, stating that records and documents verified during the inspection confirmed that no shortage existed. They further said offerings, including gold coins and gold bars donated by devotees, are securely stored and subjected to regular audits.
The administration committee of Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple has dismissed as baseless the allegations in a police report that valuables were missing from the temple, and has demanded action against the officials who submitted what it described as an inaccurate report to the government.
The committee said it carried out a direct inspection and valuables like Vaira Nama and Deeparadhana Thatt, which were reportedly listed as missing, were found safely within the temple premises.
The committee stated that the Vaira Nama was affixed to the deity on Friday, 29 May, in the presence of the committee chairman, who is also the district judge, in accordance with temple customs.
Temple authorities also rejected claims that 72 grams of gold received as offerings were unaccounted for, stating that records and documents verified during the inspection confirmed that no shortage existed.
They further said offerings, including gold coins and gold bars donated by devotees, are securely stored and subjected to regular audits.
Also Read: After Sabarimala, gold artefacts missing from Kerala’s famed Padmanabha Swamy Temple
The committee also refuted allegations of security lapses, including claims that certain individuals were entering the temple without security checks.
It clarified that entry through the Chembakathinmoodu Nada is restricted to temple officials and members of the royal family, while all devotees, employees and guests are required to undergo security screening before entering the temple.
Criticising the police report submitted to the government, the administration committee said the findings were made without consulting temple authorities or conducting a proper investigation.
The committee has decided to approach the Chief Minister, Home Minister and the State Police Chief, seeking action against the officers responsible for submitting the report.
The controversy erupted after a report from the state police to the Home Department raised concerns over the alleged disappearance of valuables and security shortcomings at the temple.
However, temple authorities maintain that all valuables remain secure and that the allegations are unfounded.
The other day, the temple administration dismissed reports of missing valuables, irregularities in the handling of devotees’ offerings, and security lapses, as unfounded and misleading.
At the same time, police sources said that it’s up to the state government to take a call on the report and ordering a high-level probe if any.
Also Read: Sabarimala gold theft: Flag mast probe knocks on Mollywood’s door
(With inputs from Dileep V Kumar)
