Nearly seven unidentified persons entered the Sanatan Dharam Mandir in Sector 37 last night and decamped with cash and jewellery worth Rs 17 lakh. They also injured two watchmen of the temple.

Sources said the seven men entered the temple premises around 2 am and knocked at one of the doors.

Vikram, one of the night watchmen, told the temple management that he was overpowered by the men after he opened the door. They later took him and Parkash, the second watchman, hostages at gunpoint.

“They threatened us with dire consequences if we made noise. Then, they took the keys from us,” Parkash told the police.

While three dacoits remained with them, the four went inside the temple complex and looted the silver crowns, rings, earrings and other belongings of the idols. They also broke open an almirah and looted Rs 5,000.

“They all were armed with pistols, iron rods and sharp-edged weapons. It took them around two hours to rob the temple,” Vikram said.

Sources said they packed all the material in a jute bag, after which they hit the two on the head so they could not chase or raise an alarm.

Vikram later sought held from a neighbour, Hitesh Bhardwaj, who called the police. He also informed the temple president. Both guards were then rushed to the hospital where they were given first-aid.