Fresh scientific evidence has brought much-needed clarity to the high-profile Sabarimala gold theft case. Experts have confirmed that the sanctum door panels were never replaced and that the crime involved stripping gold from copper-plated sheets, not the removal of solid gold fixtures.
The findings were submitted to the Special Investigation Team and presented before the Kerala High Court on Wednesday. They dismiss theories that the sanctum fixtures were swapped out or trafficked through international smuggling networks.
Scientists from ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, who carried out detailed material testing, stated that the panels currently installed are the original copper sheets. Laboratory analysis established that the stolen material was a thin gold coating layered over copper, contradicting earlier claims that the panels themselves were made of solid gold.
The scientists also confirmed that the wooden frame of the sanctum door, known locally as the kattill, is original.
Tests on sheets that had been removed and later reinstalled revealed a sharp drop in gold content, showing that the gold was chemically extracted while the copper base was left intact.
Addressing visible changes in the panels that had raised suspicion, the VSSC team explained that these were caused by chemical reactions, not physical replacement. The use of mercury and other chemical solutions commonly employed in gold extraction altered the surface composition of the sheets, creating the appearance of tampering.
Crucially, the scientists stated there is no scientific evidence to support claims that the original panels were removed and replaced.
The SIT informed the High Court that further examination is ongoing, including comparative testing of samples from the older sanctum door. VSSC officials said a consolidated final report, incorporating these results, will be submitted soon.
This scientific testimony is expected to significantly shape the investigation, narrowing its focus to how the gold was chemically extracted and who was responsible, without any alteration to the sanctum’s core structures.
