In a major breakthrough in the Sabarimala gold theft case, scientific analysis by ISRO scientists has debunked several key myths surrounding the incident. The tests reveal that the doors of the sanctum sanctorum were not replaced with new panels. Instead, the gold plating on copper sheets was chemically stripped away.
These findings, submitted to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and presented in the Kerala High Court on Wednesday, put to rest speculations about the entire structure being tampered with or handed over to international syndicates. Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre experts conducted meticulous material examinations, confirming the copper sheets on the doors remain original.
The investigation clarified that the stolen gold was not solid panels, as initially believed, but a thin layer electroplated over copper. The wooden framework, locally known as ‘kattil’, was also verified as authentic. Samples from sheets that were removed and reinstalled showed a marked reduction in gold content, proving the theft was executed without damaging the base metal.
Visible changes on the panels, which fueled doubts, resulted from chemical reactions during the stripping process. Mercury and other solvents used altered the surface composition, changing color and texture. No evidence suggests original sheets were swapped for replicas.
The SIT informed the court that comparisons with samples from the old sanctum door are ongoing. A comprehensive final report incorporating all tests is expected soon. This scientific testimony shifts the probe’s focus to identifying the perpetrators and the exact method of gold extraction, promising to reshape the investigation’s trajectory.