Silver Idol Valued at Rs 51.2 Lakh Stolen from Karnataka Temple
A 32-kilogram silver idol of Sri Pavada Basaveshwara, valued at approximately Rs 51.20 lakh, was stolen from the sanctum sanctorum of the Pavada Basaveshwara Temple complex in Vijayapura district, Karnataka, police reported on Monday. The theft occurred in Basarakod village, Muddebihal taluk, during the night of July 5 and 6.
Discovery and Complaint
The theft was discovered around 4 AM when the resident priest noticed the temple doors open and locks broken. The idol was missing from its pedestal. Temple committee president Karanandeppa Biradar lodged a complaint at Muddebihal Police Station, leading to a case of theft being registered.
According to the complaint, unknown thieves broke the locks of the two entrance doors of the Shri Pavada Basaveshwara Temple and stole the approximately 32-kg silver idol of Shri Pavada Basaveshwara, valued at Rs 51.20 lakh, which was placed on the pedestal inside the sanctum sanctorum. The complainant stated that the temple priest had performed the evening pooja at 9 PM on July 5 and locked both the inner and outer iron doors before leaving.
Investigation Underway
Police have formed teams to identify and trace the unknown culprits. The case is under investigation. No arrests have been made yet, and authorities are examining possible leads.
