Overview
- The cache was uncovered Saturday during house foundation work at Rittioni in Lakkundi, Gadag district.
- Officials conducted a panchnama with witnesses, videographed the process, and moved 22 gold items weighing about 466–470 grams and the copper pot to the district treasury.
- ASI superintending archaeologist Ramesh Mulimani said the items do not appear to be an ancient hoard, citing broken ornaments, recovery from a kitchen area, and the absence of coins for dating.
- The Lakkundi Heritage Area Development Authority disputed the ASI’s initial view and said it will petition senior ASI officials for a thorough examination.
- District officials put the market value at roughly Rs 60–65 lakh, while formal archaeological analysis to establish period and origin is still pending.