ED Conducts Widespread Raids in Sabarimala Temple Gold Misappropriation Case
The Enforcement Directorate executed search operations at twenty-one locations across three southern states on Tuesday. Officials confirmed the raids targeted sites in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. These actions connect directly to allegations of gold and other temple asset misappropriation from the revered Sabarimala Temple.
Early Morning Operations Under PMLA
Teams from the ED's Kochi zonal office initiated the searches early in the morning. They are acting under the legal provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. The investigation stems from multiple First Information Reports filed earlier by the Kerala crime branch. These FIRs reportedly expose a deep-rooted criminal conspiracy.
Officials stated the conspiracy involves officials from the Travancore Devaswom Board, private individuals, intermediaries, and several jewelers. The ED formally registered an Enforcement Case Information Report on January 9, 2026, after receiving a favorable court order to proceed.
Gold Artefacts Misrepresented as Copper
Preliminary findings from the ED reveal a shocking detail. Sacred artefacts made of gold were deliberately recorded as "copper plates" in the temple's official records. This misrepresentation allegedly occurred between 2019 and 2025. During this period, the items were unlawfully removed from the temple premises.
The investigation further uncovered that the stolen gold underwent chemical processing at private facilities. These facilities are located in Chennai and Karnataka. The process extracted the gold, generating what officials term "proceeds of crime." These illicit funds were then retained, transferred, and concealed by the accused parties.
Objectives of the Search Operation
The primary goals of Tuesday's extensive searches were clear and multi-faceted. ED teams aimed to:
- Trace the proceeds of the crime generated from the gold.
- Identify all beneficiaries involved in the scheme.
- Seize incriminating documents and digital evidence.
- Ascertain the full scope and scale of the money laundering operation.
Officials added that their probe has also uncovered indications of other financial irregularities at Sabarimala. These potential scams include the misappropriation of funds related to temple offerings and various rituals. The ED is examining these aspects under the same PMLA framework.
The case highlights a significant alleged financial scandal surrounding one of India's most prominent temples. It points to a complex network where temple officials and private actors may have collaborated to siphon off valuable assets. The ongoing raids and investigation seek to unravel this network and bring the facts to light.
