A shocking theft incident has took place, in the heart of Silchar, a Shani Mandir, located in National High Way Point targeted by thieves on Friday night (August 15). Thieves broke into the temple by breaking a window and iron grill before fleeing with gold ornaments worth several lakhs.
According to reports, the gang looted two gold chains, a big silver chain, bangles, and other ornaments. They also stole a Shaligram Vishnu idol with golden eyes. In a disturbing act, the miscreants damaged the idol of Lord Shani, breaking both hands of the deity and causing severe damage inside the temple.
Earlier, Unlike previous cases where only donation boxes were stolen, this time thieves looted gold ornaments worth several lakhs belonging to Lord Shani.
Devotees who gathered for puja on Saturday morning (August 16) were shocked to see the vandalised idols. “Take the money and ornaments, but why damage the idol? This is inhuman,” said one committee member. Others recalled that the temple had been targeted several times before, but earlier thefts were limited to cash and donation boxes.
Temple committee members alleged that drug addicts may be behind the act and criticised Rangirkhari Outpost police for failing to prevent repeated thefts, despite the temple being in the heart of Silchar town.
Police reached the spot soon after being informed and started an investigation. However, devotees expressed frustration, pointing out that culprits of earlier thefts were never caught, raising questions over the effectiveness of security arrangements.
