Thiruvananthapuram: A new scientific investigation has brought a significant breakthrough in the Sabarimala gold theft case. Experts have clarified that the panels of the sanctum sanctorum’s door were not replaced. The probe further revealed that the stolen material was not solid gold but a gold layer plated over copper sheets.
The findings were submitted to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and presented before the Kerala High Court on Wednesday. This has dismissed speculations about the replacement of the door fixtures or their involvement with any international criminal syndicate.
Scientists from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre conducted a detailed examination of the materials. They confirmed that the copper sheets installed on the Sabarimala doors are original and unchanged. The investigation also established that the stolen part was the gold plating over the copper sheets, contrary to earlier assumptions that solid gold panels were taken.
Further, the wooden frame of the sanctum sanctorum door, locally called ‘Kattil’, was found to be completely original. Samples taken from sheets that were temporarily removed and reinstalled showed a significantly reduced gold content. This clearly indicates that only the gold layer was stripped off, leaving the copper intact.
The scientists explained that the visible changes on the panels were not due to the installation of new sheets but resulted from chemical reactions. The process used to extract gold involved mercury and related chemical solutions, which altered the chemical structure of the sheets and caused visible surface changes.
However, the scientific team emphasized that there is no evidence to prove that the original sheets were replaced with new ones. The SIT informed the High Court that the investigation is ongoing, including comparative analysis of samples from the old sanctum doors.
Officials from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre stated that a comprehensive final report, incorporating the results of these comparative tests, will be submitted soon. It is expected that this scientific testimony will play a crucial role in directing the investigation towards understanding the methods of gold theft and identifying those involved who removed the gold chemically without altering the main structure of the sanctum sanctorum.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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