Kochi: A vigilance probe into the alleged misappropriation of funds from the sale of ghee at Sabarimala has led to 33 persons being named as accused, including Temple Special Officers and nearly 30 counter staff.
While hearing the matter, the High Court came down heavily on the temple authorities, expressing shock over what it described as “callous and casual” record-keeping practices involving revenue from sacred offerings.
During the proceedings, the High Court observed that the manner in which accounts were maintained was deeply concerning, particularly given the massive footfall and revenue generated at the revered hill shrine.
“It is shocking to note the callous and casual manner in which records are maintained, and the income generated from the sale of sacred offerings is accounted for,” the court remarked.
Drawing a sharp comparison, the bench further observed that even a small shopkeeper would be expected to maintain better financial discipline. “Even a person running a modest petty shop would be expected to maintain far better accounting discipline to ensure that income and stock are properly reconciled,” the court said.
The vigilance investigation into the alleged irregularities in the sale of ghee packets, a key sacred offering at Sabarimala, has named 33 individuals as accused. These include Temple Special Officers as well as counter staff responsible for handling the sale and distribution of ghee.
The case centres around suspected discrepancies in the accounting of revenue generated through the sale of ghee packets to devotees.
According to submissions made before the court, ghee packets were issued to sales counters after being entered into notebooks informally referred to as “Kutti Books.” Separate notebooks were reportedly maintained for each counter and kept in the temple office.
These notebooks recorded the number of packets issued along with the signatures of the staff receiving them.
Investigating officers produced one such 200-page school notebook pertaining to the Maramathu-II counter. On examining it, the court noted that entries from November 17, 2025 to December 30, 2025 occupied only around 20 pages. The notebook also contained multiple corrections, overwriting, and interlineations, aspects that drew the court’s strong disapproval.
The High Court further observed that the Temple Board and its officials were expected to exercise far stricter supervision and internal controls, especially considering that the sale of offerings at Sabarimala generates revenue amounting to several lakhs of rupees daily.
The matter remains under judicial scrutiny as the vigilance probe continues, with the court signalling that accountability and transparent financial management are essential in institutions managing public religious funds.
