The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a batch of petitions on Monday seeking an independent, court-monitored investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations collected at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya.

The petitions seek the transfer of the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and request a time-bound probe along with a forensic audit of the temple's donation records to examine the alleged financial irregularities.

The matter comes before the apex court at a time when an investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is already underway into the alleged misappropriation of temple funds.

Petitions Seek Court-Monitored Probe

According to the petitions, the Supreme Court has been urged to direct an independent investigation under judicial supervision to ensure transparency and public confidence in the handling of devotees' donations.

The petitioners have also sought a forensic examination of donation records to verify allegations of financial irregularities and identify any misuse of funds.

The court is expected to consider whether the ongoing investigation is sufficient or whether an independent agency should take over the probe.

Investigation Already Underway

Law enforcement agencies have been investigating the alleged theft and misuse of donations collected by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

So far, eight people have been arrested in connection with the case. Authorities are continuing to investigate the alleged diversion and misappropriation of temple funds, while collecting financial and documentary evidence.

The ongoing SIT inquiry remains active as investigators examine the flow of donations and related financial transactions.

Administrative Changes in Temple Trust

The controversy has also led to significant organisational changes within the temple trust.

The trust recently accepted the resignations of General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra. An interim secretary has been appointed, while the process to select a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) has also been initiated.

These changes come amid efforts to strengthen administrative oversight as the investigation continues.

Political and Religious Reactions

The allegations have triggered widespread political debate and attracted attention from religious organisations across the country.

Several opposition leaders have demanded an independent investigation into the alleged financial irregularities, arguing that the matter requires complete transparency due to the public nature of the donations.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), however, has expressed confidence in the ongoing SIT investigation while stressing the need for accountability in managing funds contributed by devotees.

Court's Decision Awaited

The Supreme Court's hearing is expected to determine whether the existing SIT investigation should continue independently or whether additional judicial oversight or a CBI-led probe is warranted.

The outcome could influence the future course of the investigation and clarify the extent of judicial supervision over the alleged financial irregularities involving one of the country's most prominent religious institutions.