Suspected treasure hunters have carved a clandestine tunnel inside Narwar fort, an ASI-protected site in Madhya Pradesh, officials told TOI. The shaft, around 20 feet deep, was discovered behind the Maa Pasar Devi temple, raising concerns over security at the heritage site.

Residents said the tunnel surfaced behind the temple and had been concealed using bushes. Police teams that reached the spot recovered digging tools, aerosol spray cans and blankets, indicating that those involved may have stayed at the site for several days.

Investigators believe the excavation was carried out over several nights and covered up each morning to avoid detection, suggesting a planned and sustained effort.

Treasure belief linked to local legend

The incident is linked to a long-standing belief that treasure lies beneath the temple’s idol. The shrine houses a reclining goddess associated with a local legend about King Nala.

According to the lore, the deity was placed at the fort’s entrance to guard a royal treasury after the king lost his kingdom, with riches believed to remain buried beneath the idol.

Metallic echo fuels speculation

Officials pointed to a cavity near the idol that produces a metallic echo when coins are dropped into it, a detail that has reinforced local belief in hidden treasure. Police suspect the tunnel was intended to reach this point from behind.

No case registered yet

No case has been registered so far. Shivpuri superintendent of police Aman Singh Rathore said action would be taken only after a formal complaint is received from the concerned authorities.

(With inputs from TOI)