Sabarimala 'gold-plated' controversy: No lessons learnt from past

The Global Ayyappa Sangam in Sabarimala, a topic of discussion not only on a spiritual level but also on many caste and political levels, was around the corner when the Kerala high court on Wednesday ordered the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to bring back from Chennai the gold-plated copper sheets on Dwarapalaka idols, belonging to the Sabarimala temple.

As per reports, the gold-plated copper sheets were taken to Chennai without following legal procedures and in violation of a previous order of the High Court. The explanation given by the Devaswom Board that the gold plating was brought to Chennai safely with the permission of the Thantri did not seem plausible. With rumours of malicious intent popping up against the decision to shift the gold-plated copper to Chennai, it is imperative that TDB clear the air over the issue at the earliest.

The gold-plated mudramala, rosary and yoga danda, which are part of the Sabarimala Ayyappa idol, were removed in 2023 on the pretext of repairs and taken to the Devaswom goldsmith without informing the court-appointed special commissioner. Following this, the order issued by the High Court on June 30 of that year clarified that such repairs should be carried out only in the vicinity of the Sannidhanam, after informing the court through the special commissioner. The Devaswom Commissioner, Thiruvabharanam Commissioner and Sabarimala Executive Officer were aware of this instruction, but in complete violation of the court order, the gold plating on the Dwarapalaka sculptures was removed and transported out of the state. The TDB opined that the issue is being blown out of proportion. In reality, the issue warrants attention, and hitherto the Board has been unconvincing in their explanation.

Not convinced by such absurd explanations, the High Court ordered the immediate return of the gold bars taken to Chennai. The court directed the sponsor and the agency in Chennai to stop the repair works. However, it remains to be seen what stance the court will take on the Devaswom Board's statement that there is a practical difficulty in bringing back the gold bars by stopping the repairs midway. There are still no details on whether the gold was melted as part of the repair works.

Any issue related to faith is emotional. Taking a unilateral decision at a place of worship as mammoth and divine as Sabarimala reeks of puerile decision-making. The ruling party faced the heat when they tried to intervene in the court order allowing women entry in Sabarimala. At a time when they were mending ties and healing from the old wounds, the government has yet again been put on the defensive in Sabarimala. It is never a wise move to play with the emotions of devotees, especially in a religiously fervent country like India.