Probe finds no discrepancies in temple's Jewellery records

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, November 3, 2024

The Daityeshwari Temple in Sabroom, a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali, recently faced controversy following allegations that a management committee member had moved the temple's gold ornaments and jewelry to his house without authorization. The accusations led to widespread criticism and calls for an official investigation.

A probe conducted by the Deputy Collector and Magistrate of Sabroom found no discrepancies in the temple's records, with all gold ornaments and jewelry accounted for in the temple's safe. The findings have cleared the accused functionary of any wrongdoing, though the incident cast a shadow over the recent Deepavali festivities.

Leader of Opposition and sitting MLA Jitendra Chowdhury, along with former MLA Shankar Roy, had previously demanded a prompt investigation into the matter. Sabroom Sub-Divisional Magistrate Shivjyoti Dutta issued a letter on October 31 (letter no. F7(29)SDM/SBM/JDL/2024/315) to the Officer-in-Charge of Sabroom Police Station, calling for an urgent investigation. A committee, led by the Deputy Collector, has also been formed to conduct a further inquiry into the allegations.

The Deputy Collector's report confirmed that the jewelry records maintained by the temple committee match official inventories, though the exact weight of the ornaments has yet to be verified. To enhance security, the Daityeshwari Temple has been placed under 24-hour police surveillance since October 31, with CCTV cameras now installed on the premises.

The allegations involving the gold ornaments of the 150-year-old temple have led to mixed reactions among devotees. Many are now requesting a clear, detailed report from the temple committee and district administration on the status of the temple's gold assets, urging for transparency and timely updates.