New Delhi: A golden, jewel-encrusted ceremonial kalash (sacred vessel), valued at approximately ₹1 crore, was stolen from the Red Fort during a Jain religious event, Delhi Police confirmed. The incident has raised serious security concerns at this significant national monument.
The theft at a religious ceremony
The kalash, used daily for worship by businessman Sudhir Jain, went missing mid-ceremony during the ongoing Daslakshan Mahaparv at the Red Fort. When rituals resumed, organisers discovered the vessel had vanished from the stage. (@mathrubhumi, India Today)
Richly adorned and carefully captured on CCTV
Police revealed the stolen kalash weighed around 760 g of gold, further embellished with approximately 150 g of diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. (@mathrubhumi, www.ndtv.com, India Today) CCTV footage showed a suspect, disguised as a Jain priest and carrying a black bag, moving in the vicinity of the stage during the theft. (@mathrubhumi, www.ndtv.com, tripuratimes.com)
Investigation under way, suspect identified
Delhi Police have registered an FIR and confirmed identification of the accused. Dedicated teams are on the case, and officials expect an arrest soon. (@mathrubhumi, tripuratimes.com) The theft has sparked renewed scrutiny over security at Red Fort—a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Prime Minister hoists the tricolour each Independence Day.
Historic venue and rising concerns
This incident marks yet another breach at the Red Fort. During security drills ahead of Independence Day, seven police personnel were suspended for failing to detect a dummy bomb planted as part of mock exercises, further denting confidence in the venue’s safety protocol.