THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The burial site of Gopan Swami (81) at Kailasanatha Mahadeva Temple, Kavuvila, Athiyannoor, is set to be opened soon. Police have removed family members opposing the exhumation by using force.

Gopan Swami’s wife and son were present at the burial site, opposing the action. The exhumation and inspection will be conducted in the presence of Sub-Collector Alfred. Police have completed all necessary preparations, and the body will be sent for post-mortem examination today. Forensic experts have also arrived at the location for investigations. Locals have also gathered at the site.

A large police team has been deployed at the spot. Locals had demanded the exhumation and post-mortem of the body to determine the cause of death. Police had submitted a report to the District Collector and are continuing their investigation. They have also recorded the statements of Gopan's family members.

The family remains firmly against the exhumation process. Gopan Swami’s wife, Sulochana, stated that her husband had attained samadhi and they would not permit the burial site to be opened. She alleged that the complaint was lodged by some people who wanted to take control of the temple’s administration. She also stated that none of her family members had filed a complaint regarding her husband's death. She also claimed that her husband had not been bedridden and was able to walk even during his last days.