According to preliminary information, the accused entered the temple premises by breaking open a rear door of the sanctum. The incident came to light early Saturday morning when priests and devotees arrived for routine rituals and found the lock damaged. Upon inspection, several ornaments offered to the deity were found missing, prompting immediate intimation to the police.
The Maa Danteshwari Temple, considered the presiding deity of the Bastar region, is one of the most revered religious sites in southern Chhattisgarh. The theft has triggered concern among devotees and local residents, given the temple’s religious and cultural significance.
A police team from City Kotwali police station reached the spot soon after receiving the information. Senior officials confirmed that forensic experts were also called to the scene to collect evidence and examine possible points of entry. CCTV cameras installed in and around the temple premises are being scrutinised to trace the movement of the suspects.
“An offence has been registered and a detailed investigation is underway. At this stage, it is not possible to confirm the exact quantity or value of the stolen ornaments. We are verifying inventory records maintained by the temple management,” a police official said.
Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of the theft being pre-planned, considering the manner in which the rear door was targeted. Security arrangements at the temple are also being reviewed, and additional measures are likely to be introduced once the investigation progresses.
Following the incident, the temple administration decided to keep the shrine closed for the general public until the completion of the initial investigation. Devotees have been requested to cooperate with authorities and avoid crowding the premises.
Police officials stated that multiple teams have been formed to track the suspects and gather leads from nearby areas. Local residents have also been questioned as part of the inquiry.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over the security of prominent religious institutions. Officials said further details would be shared once the assessment of losses is completed and concrete leads emerge.
