Sabarimala, one of India’s most revered shrines, is at the centre of a major controversy after the arrest of its chief priest during the annual pilgrimage season. The Special Investigation Team has taken Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru into custody in connection with a gold theft case involving temple artefacts. Investigators say the arrest is based on the statement of the prime accused, who allegedly acted on the priest’s recommendation regarding replating of deity ornaments. The move has sparked a political storm, with demands for a central probe. As faith, trust and accountability collide, the Sabarimala gold theft investigation is far from over.