Residents of Jaipur's Muhana area are seething with anger after thieves struck a revered local temple for the fourth time in as many years, making off with precious silver items and desecrating idols in a brazen act of vandalism.
Details of the Daring Temple Theft
The incident occurred on Monday night at the temple situated on Ananda City Road in Muhana Mandi. The criminals broke into the sanctum, leaving a trail of destruction and loss. According to the police, the stolen items include 1.25 kg of silver foil, a silver crown from a Radha-Krishna idol, a 2 kg silver canopy, a silver necklace, and a flute.
The crime was discovered early Tuesday morning by the temple priest, Kamlesh Sharma, who found the locks broken and the inner sanctum violated. He confirmed the grim pattern, stating this was the fourth time the temple has been targeted by thieves in four years.
Outrage and Accusations of Police Apathy
The situation escalated when CCTV footage from the premises revealed the suspects not just stealing, but also vandalising the temple idols. This act of desecration ignited fury among the local community.
By Tuesday, hundreds of angry residents had gathered outside the temple, demanding decisive action. Their primary grievance is against what they perceive as police indifference. Locals allege that while First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered after each of the previous thefts, no concrete action or arrests followed. "Every time there is a theft, the police come, register a complaint and leave. Nothing changes," lamented a devotee, echoing the community's frustration.
Police Response and Investigation
Facing public pressure, the police have initiated an investigation. A forensic team visited the site to collect evidence, and authorities are analysing CCTV footage from the area. Police officials have assured the agitated locals that arrests in the case will be made soon.
However, this assurance has done little to placate the devotees, who insist that the repeated targeting and desecration of their sacred space is intolerable. The incident has highlighted serious concerns about the security of religious institutions in the area and the efficacy of police follow-up on repeated crimes.
