A minor security incident occurred at the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on Monday, July 14, 2025, when a police officer accidentally discharged a firearm. The incident took place in the morning during a routine duty change.
According to reports, the officer was cleaning his rifle in the armaments room when the weapon misfired. The bullet struck the floor, and no injuries were reported. Authorities have confirmed that the incident was unintentional.
The city police have initiated an internal inquiry to determine the circumstances surrounding the accidental firing. Initial investigations suggest that the weapon may have been left loaded inadvertently. The incident has prompted a review of the temple's security protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Despite the incident, temple activities continued without disruption.
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a highly revered shrine known for its intricate architecture, rich history, and immense treasures. Following the discovery of its hidden vaults in 2011, which contained priceless artifacts, the temple's security was significantly enhanced.
Currently, the temple has a multi-tiered security system. This includes a specialized security zone, armed police guards, and surveillance technology. The Kerala government had previously allocated significant funds to ensure the temple's protection. The security system includes metal detectors, X-ray scanners, and surveillance cameras placed at various points within the temple complex. There are also specialized units and commandos on standby to respond to any potential threats.
The accidental firing has raised concerns about potential security lapses within the temple. An investigation is underway to address these concerns and reinforce existing security measures.