Where are the 41 missing files on theft of idols, Supreme Court asks T.N. govt.

On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, the Tamil Nadu government questioned more than 41 missing files regarding the theft of idols, and observed that protection of culture was the responsibility of the state.

“From the first day, the petitions were opened in the Supreme Court of Madras 376 idol stolen. Details were placed before the healing authorities. Idols drew attention to the museums abroad. 41 files disappeared before the authorities.

Mr. Hegde said some files were restructured. Justice Mahadevan, “These missing files have been registered in any Fir … the secretary otherwise we will call. Culture to protect the state is the responsibility of the state,” he said.

Justice Nagarathna said the truth behind the missing files should take root. “38 Fires occurred at the same time in 38 different police stations, did he destroy the files? Or was there a circular to destroy the files,” he asked.

The hearing was on the basis of a petition opened by lawyer Elephant Rajendran, who was looking for a fair investigation against missing files. In his petition, he claimed that the missing files were engaged in the stolen of antique temple idols, valuable works, jewels and other properties. He claimed that the disappearance was the result of a “serious conspiracy arasında between the high police officers, bureaucracy and mafia.

‘Some idols have healed’

Mr. Hegde said 11 Fir was registered about missing files. Some idols were rescued.

In his petition, Mr. Rajendran said that in the 2019 case of the Supreme Court of Madras, “Tamil Nadu’s glorious temples are a state known for its rich culture and heritage.