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Vaishno Devi 'Fake Silver' Row: Court Extends Probe, Next Hearing October 10
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CNBC TV18•22-09-2026, 21:29
Vaishno Devi 'Fake Silver' Row: Court Extends Probe, Next Hearing October 10
- •A local court granted more time for the probe into alleged 'fake silver' offerings at the Vaishno Devi shrine, citing the need to examine substantial documentary and CCTV material.
- •The case stems from advocate Deepak Sharma's complaint seeking an FIR and investigation into alleged adulteration, substitution, pilferage, and misappropriation of 20 tonnes of silver offerings, valued at Rs 550 crore.
- •The inquiry involves examining 116 pages of official records, extensive CCTV footage, and statements from Shrine Board officials, priests, CRPF, and J&K Police personnel.
- •Statements of certain senior Shrine Board officials are still pending, and correspondence has been sent to preserve and produce relevant CCTV footage covering the entire process of metal offerings.
- •Police also requested relevant orders, SOPs, rules, guidelines, and records from the government mint concerning the handling, storage, transportation, and processing of offerings.
Key Questions Answered
The chief judicial magistrate of Jammu has listed the next hearing for the Vaishno Devi fake silver case on October 10 after granting the inquiry officer more time to complete the investigation.
The case arises from a complaint filed by advocate Deepak Sharma, which sought a comprehensive and scientific investigation into the alleged adulteration, substitution, and misappropriation of silver offerings.
The inquiry involves examining 116 pages of official records, standard operating procedures, and substantial electronic data including CCTV footage covering the collection, storage, and transportation of metal offerings.
