Election flying squad seizes 53 idols near Tiruvannamalai

The idols were handed them over to the Kilpennathur tahsildar’s office for safe custody.

TIRUVANNAMALAI: An election flying squad intercepted a vehicle near Kilpennathur in Tiruvannamalai district on Wednesday and seized 53 panchaloha (a traditional five-metal alloy) and brass idols of Hindu gods and goddesses.The incident occurred at the Velanandhal junction on the outskirts of Kilpennathur. An election flying squad, led by officials conducting routine vehicular checks, indicated to a Pondicherry-registered car to stop. Upon inspection, the team discovered a variety of idols deities — including those of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Lord Nataraja, Goddess Saraswati and Buddha — of different sizes.

The driver of the vehicle, identified as Umar Farooq, had reportedly transported the idols from Mamallapuram.

According to preliminary inquiries, the statues were intended for sale at various shops along the girivalam path in Tiruvannamalai.The driver was unable to produce valid invoices, transport permits and ownership documents for the idols. The officials seized 53 idols and handed them over to the Kilpennathur tahsildar’s office for safe custody.

Election officials stated that the idols would be returned to the owner only upon the submission of proper legal documents proving their origin and commercial legitimacy.