Kerala High Court: Sabarimala Gold Theft a 'Systematic Plunder', Not Ordinary Crime

• Kerala High Court termed the alleged gold theft at Sabarimala Temple as a 'systematic plunder' of Devaswom properties, not an ordinary theft.
• The court expressed grave doubts that those entrusted with protecting the temple's properties might be involved in the crime.
• Preliminary inspection by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) suggests original gold plates might have been replaced, indicating large-scale manipulation.
• SIT directed to re-inspect on January 20 for scientific evaluation of gold plates' age and quality, with VSSC officials' detailed statements to be recorded.
• 13 accused are in judicial custody, bank accounts frozen, and efforts are on to trace the melted gold; next hearing on February 9.

Why It Matters: Kerala High Court suspects systematic plunder of gold from Sabarimala Temple, implicating those responsible for its protection.