Sabarimala Gold Theft: SIT Uncovers Massive Loot, ISRO Joins Probe, 10 Arrested

• SIT reveals gold stolen from multiple parts of Sabarimala Temple, not just two as initially thought.
• Theft involves doors, carvings, Prabha Mandalam, Shiva idol, Sopanam, and other structures, dating back to 2019 repairs.
• Gold was chemically separated at a Chennai firm; 10 arrests made, including sponsor Unnikrishnan Potty, jeweler Govardhan Roddam, and CPI(M) leaders.
• ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) is assisting the SIT to determine the exact quantity of missing gold.
• The case has become a major political issue, impacting local body elections and drawing criticism for CPI(M).

Why It Matters: Sabarimala gold theft expands; SIT, with ISRO's help, uncovers widespread loot and makes arrests.