Bihar: Major Theft at Renowned Thawe Durga Temple in Gopalganj, Gold Crown and Silver Canopy Stolen

In a shocking incident that has sent waves of anger and concern among devotees, a major theft has been reported at the famous Thawe Durga Temple in Gopalganj district of Bihar. Unknown miscreants allegedly broke into the temple late on Wednesday night and decamped with the sacred gold crown of the deity, a silver canopy, and gold ornaments worth several lakhs of rupees.

According to police officials, two masked thieves scaled the boundary wall of the temple premises around 11:30 pm amid dense fog and near-zero visibility. Using a gas cutter, they broke open the lock of the sanctum sanctorum and carried out the theft within minutes before fleeing the scene by jumping back over the wall.

Police Investigation Underway

Gopalganj Superintendent of Police Avadhesh Kumar Dixit reached the spot soon after the incident and initiated an investigation. He stated that the case is being probed using scientific methods, and CCTV footage installed in and around the temple premises is being closely examined.

“The thieves were masked, but we are analyzing CCTV footage and questioning temple guards and staff. A special police team has been constituted under the supervision of the SDPO. The culprits will be arrested soon,” the SP assured.

Public Anger and Security Concerns

The incident has raised serious questions about the security arrangements at one of Bihar’s most revered religious sites. Local residents and devotees expressed strong resentment, demanding immediate arrests and enhanced security at the temple.

The theft took place during a period of heavy fog, which investigators believe the criminals deliberately exploited to execute the crime without detection.

About Thawe Durga Temple

The Thawe Durga Temple is a revered Shakti Peeth and the family deity of the erstwhile Hathua royal family. The temple holds immense religious and historical significance and attracts thousands of devotees from across Bihar and other states.

According to legend, the temple is associated with Rahshu Bhagat, a devout farmer, and the downfall of the arrogant King Manan Singh, symbolizing the divine power of Goddess Durga. The recent theft has deeply hurt the sentiments of devotees, who consider the stolen ornaments sacred offerings to the deity.

Assurance of Swift Action

Police officials have reiterated that those involved in the crime will not be spared and that recovering the stolen idols and ornaments remains a top priority. Security across the district’s major temples has also been reviewed in the aftermath of the incident.

The investigation is ongoing.