**”TDB Moves Kerala HC Over Challenges in Returning Gold-Plated Sheets Amid Restoration Work”**

Rapid Summary

• The Kerala High Court directed the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to return gold-plated sheets removed from the Dwarapalaka idols at Sabarimala temple for restoration in Chennai.
• TDB filed a review petition highlighting practical difficulties in retrieving the sheets since restoration work has already begun.
• The court criticized TDB for removing the idols without obtaining prior approval,stating sufficient time existed to seek permission.
• TDB clarified that it sent the sheets for restoration with approval from the temple’s Tantri and the board.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The Kerala high Court’s firm stance underscores its commitment to preserving religious and cultural practices while ensuring administrative openness by governing bodies like TDB. While TDB sought approval from traditional authorities such as the Tantri, bypassing legal procedures may effect public trust and raise accountability questions surrounding decisions over sacred objects. This development could lead to broader debates on balancing heritage management with institutional oversight strategies, which are critical given Sabarimala’s significance as a major pilgrimage site.Link: Read More