The Kerala High Court has given the green light for police to open a concrete chamber where Gopan, a 69-year-old spiritual guru from Neyyattinkara, is believed to have entered "samadhi," a state of meditative consciousness. This decision follows mounting curiosity and complaints from locals regarding his mysterious disappearance.

Last week, Gopan’s family declared he had attained "samadhi" near their family temple, sparking both intrigue and suspicion. When police attempted to open the chamber under a Revenue Divisional Officer's (RDO) order, his wife, Sulochana, and sons, Rajasenan and Sanandan, strongly resisted. Support from a local Hindu organization amplified their protests, claiming that public exposure of Gopan’s body would disrupt his spiritual journey to God.

The police, who had registered a missing person's case, were compelled to withdraw due to rising tensions. However, the family filed a writ petition against the RDO order, stating that religious rituals tied to the samadhi would last 41 days and should not be disrupted.

Their lawyer, Ranjith Chandran, argued the RDO's action violated natural justice. He added, “We are not opposing an investigation but request adherence to religious customs during this period.”

The court's decision to open the tomb marks a significant development in unraveling the mystery. Meanwhile, debates over the intersection of law, faith, and natural justice continue to stir public opinion.