Jewellery worth Rs. 8 lakh stolen from ancient Shitala temple in West Medinipur

Jewellery worth around Rs. 8 lakh was stolen from an ancient and revered Sheetala temple in Bhunyada village under Daspur police station area of West Midnapore district, triggering shock and anger among locals. The theft took place late on Tuesday night and came to light on Wednesday morning.

According to locals and the temple authorities, miscreants broke open the main lock of the temple and stole gold and silver ornaments that adorned the idol of Goddess Sheetala. The stolen items reportedly include a silver crown, multiple gold necklaces, earrings and other valuable jewellery.

The temple belongs to a well-known priestly family of the village. Family members said the temple was locked around 8.30 pm on Tuesday and all ornaments were secure at that time. The incident was discovered around 7 am when a family member arrived for routine cleaning and daily worship.

On entering the sanctum, the idol was found in a damaged condition with all ornaments missing. The incident has deeply hurt religious sentiments, as villagers consider the temple highly sacred and traditionally begin all auspicious work only after offering prayers there.

Police from Daspur police station reached the spot around 9.30 am, conducted an inspection and collected evidence from the premises. An investigation has been initiated and a search operation is underway to trace those involved in the theft.