Jammu Court Summons Crime Branch Officer in ₹500-Crore Vaishno Devi 'Fake Silver' Controversy
A Jammu court has directed an inquiry officer of the Jammu and Kashmir Police Crime Branch to personally appear before it with all relevant records in connection with the alleged ₹500-crore "fake silver offerings" controversy linked to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
The matter concerns allegations that silver offerings made by devotees at one of India's most prominent religious shrines may have been adulterated, substituted, or otherwise mishandled. The allegations have raised serious concerns regarding the management, custody, and authenticity of offerings received at the shrine.
The proceedings arise from a complaint seeking registration of a First Information Report (FIR) and a comprehensive investigation into the alleged irregularities. The complainant reportedly alleged offences including criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust, misappropriation of property, and manipulation of official records.
Taking note of the allegations and the status of the inquiry, the Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Jammu, directed the Crime Branch inquiry officer to appear with the complete case record on the next date of hearing. The court's order reflects its intent to closely monitor the progress of the investigation and assess the action taken by law enforcement authorities.
The complaint further calls for an investigation into the procurement, supply chain, and handling of the alleged silver materials offered at the shrine. Questions have also been raised regarding the role of officials, suppliers, custodians, and other individuals who may have been involved in the process.
The controversy has attracted significant public attention due to the shrine's religious importance and the substantial value of the offerings allegedly involved. Legal experts note that if the allegations are substantiated, the matter could potentially involve offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita relating to cheating, criminal breach of trust, misappropriation, and conspiracy.
The case remains at the inquiry stage, and no findings have yet been made regarding the veracity of the allegations. The court is expected to review the records produced by the Crime Branch and determine the appropriate course of action in subsequent proceedings.