mathrubhumi The Devaswom Board in Kerala is facing major controversy after an audit report revealed that several temple lands worth crores of rupees have gone missing or been illegally occupied. The report highlights serious lapses in record-keeping and administrative oversight, particularly in Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam districts.
According to the audit, multiple acres of temple land have been lost due to record errors, unauthorized transfers, and negligence by officials. Some lands have remained under encroachment for years without any action from the authorities.
The report also points out that the loss of these assets has directly affected the revenues of several major temples under the Board’s control. In response, the state government is reportedly planning to form a special investigation team to probe the irregularities.
Experts have urged immediate reforms, including a digital land survey and transparent documentation system, to ensure accountability and protect temple-owned assets from further exploitation.
