The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is scheduled to hold an important meeting on Wednesday, where it is expected to appoint a permanent general secretary and fill three vacant trustee positions. The meeting comes shortly after the alleged donation theft case at the Ram Temple, making it one of the trust's most significant administrative gatherings in recent weeks.

The meeting will begin at 4:00 pm under the chairmanship of Trust President Mahant Nritya Gopal Das. Treasurer Govind Dev Giri and Shankaracharya Swami Vasudevanand Saraswati have already arrived in Ayodhya to participate in the proceedings.

Race for General Secretary Post

Acting General Secretary Krishna Mohan and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) General Secretary Bajrang Lal Bagra are considered the leading contenders for the permanent general secretary's post.

The appointment is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening the trust's administrative functioning, especially at a time when the temple administration is under increased public attention.

Three Trustee Positions Vacant

The vacancies arose after the trust accepted the resignations of former General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Dr. Anil Mishra during its meeting on 6 July. Both leaders had submitted their resignations on 26 June.

Following their exit, retired Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Krishna Mohan was appointed as the acting general secretary.

A third trustee position became vacant after the demise of Bimalendra Mohan Pratap Mishra, head of the Ayodhya royal family and a member of the trust. The meeting is expected to finalize appointments for all three vacant positions.

Meeting Held Amid Donation Theft Probe

The trust meeting is being held against the backdrop of the recently reported Ram Mandir donation theft case, which has drawn significant public attention.

While the trust has not officially stated that the matter is part of the meeting agenda, the case has heightened the importance of the discussions. The meeting is expected to focus on strengthening administrative oversight and ensuring smooth management of the temple's affairs.

CEO Appointment Nears Final Stage

Alongside the trustee appointments, the process of selecting a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Ram Temple administration has entered its final phase.

According to available information, nearly 5,500 candidates from across the country have applied online for the position. The newly appointed CEO is expected to assume charge after Raksha Bandhan (28 August).

The CEO will oversee the temple's administration, daily operations, infrastructure management, security, and facilities for devotees.

The decisions taken during Wednesday's meeting are expected to shape the future administrative structure of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust as it continues to manage one of India's most prominent religious institutions.

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.

The investigation into the alleged theft of donation money at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya gathered pace on Wednesday after police took three accused into 40-hour custody remand for questioning. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is also widening its probe by examining expenditure related to major events organised by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, while political reactions continue to mount over the case.

The three accused—Lavkush Mishra, Anukalp Mishra and Karunesh Pandey—were taken into remand after a police team reached Faizabad Jail early Wednesday morning. Officials escorted them to the Police Lines, where they will be questioned regarding the alleged misappropriation of donation funds collected at the temple.

CCTV Footage Forms Key Evidence

According to the SIT's preliminary findings, CCTV footage allegedly shows the three accused pocketing currency notes from donation collections. Investigators are examining the footage along with other documentary and forensic evidence to determine the extent of the alleged embezzlement and identify whether additional individuals were involved.

The remand is expected to help investigators reconstruct the sequence of events and verify the role of each accused.

Trust Finances Under Scrutiny

As part of the ongoing investigation, the SIT has begun reviewing financial records related to major religious events organised by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

Officials are scrutinising bills, vouchers and expenditure documents connected with the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony held on January 22, 2024, and the flag-hoisting ceremony organised on November 25, 2025.

According to records under examination, approximately ₹113 crore was spent on the consecration ceremony, which was attended by nearly 8,000 guests, while around ₹10.12 crore was spent on the flag-hoisting event. Investigators are verifying whether financial procedures were properly followed during these programmes.

Champat Rai Meets Trust Treasurer

Meanwhile, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri met Trust General Secretary Champat Rai, who has been staying in seclusion at Teerth Kshetra Puram near the Ram Mandir complex.

On Tuesday, Rai publicly denied all allegations through a written statement, asserting that the accusations against him were baseless and that he had no involvement in any financial irregularities.

Political Reactions Intensify

The case has triggered sharp political reactions across party lines.

Uttar Pradesh Minister Gulab Devi said the state government would ensure strict action against everyone found guilty, irrespective of their influence or position. She stated that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's decision to constitute an inquiry panel reflected the government's commitment to transparency and accountability.

Congress MP Rajeev Shukla questioned the scope of the investigation, arguing that action against only junior staff would be insufficient. He demanded that responsibility be fixed at the highest level if evidence warranted such action and suggested that temple administration should involve a broader representation of religious leaders.

Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav also criticised the investigation process, alleging that the SIT had been constituted before the FIR was registered and claiming that no senior Trust functionary had been named in the case so far.

Investigation Continues

Police officials have not disclosed further details of the interrogation strategy, citing the ongoing investigation. The SIT is expected to continue examining financial documents, digital evidence and witness statements over the coming days to establish whether the alleged theft was an isolated incident or part of a larger conspiracy.

Authorities have maintained that the investigation is being conducted based on evidence and that appropriate legal action will be taken against anyone found responsible.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged theft of donations at Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir has identified nearly 70 suspicious incidents during a preliminary investigation into the counting of offerings made by devotees.

According to the report submitted to the Uttar Pradesh government, CCTV footage recorded between April 27 and June 5 allegedly shows several employees concealing bundles of currency notes inside their pockets, clothes, shoes and socks while working in the donation counting room.

The report was submitted on Monday night, shortly after a meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in which the resignations of senior functionaries Champat Rai and Dr Anil Mishra were accepted.

Security and counting process under scanner

The SIT has held Dr Anil Mishra responsible for major procedural and security lapses in the donation counting system. Investigators said he was overseeing financial management, cash collection operations and coordination related to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for handling donations.

The report noted that information regarding employees not being properly searched had already reached him through internal channels, but no effective corrective orders were issued.

Among the shortcomings identified by the SIT were:

• Absence of biometric attendance for staff

• Lack of mandatory uniforms

• Employees carrying personal belongings into the counting room

• Improper records of donation boxes and collected cash

• Weak daily reporting and monitoring mechanisms

Investigators said these gaps created opportunities for repeated theft of donations.

Six employees named in report

The SIT said preliminary evidence directly links six accused employees to the alleged thefts:

• Avinash Shukla

• Anukalp Mishra

• Lavkush Mishra

• Manish Kumar Yadav

• Karunesh Pandey

• Ramashankar Mishra

Based on CCTV footage, recovery of cash and examination of bank transactions, the SIT recommended prosecution under provisions related to theft, criminal breach of trust, misappropriation of property and conspiracy.

A case was subsequently registered on the complaint of trustee Krishna Mohan, and the accused have been arrested and sent to judicial custody.

Large cash recovery from accused

Police sources said accused Avinash Shukla allegedly confessed to spending a significant portion of the stolen money on family members and personal expenses.

Investigators recovered:

• ₹20.39 lakh in cash

• 1,121 US dollars

• Gold jewellery

• Silver ornaments

• A car allegedly purchased using the proceeds

The SIT is also examining property transactions and fixed deposits linked to the accused and their relatives.

Counting room key issue

Another serious concern highlighted in the report relates to Ramashankar Yadav alias Tinnu, who allegedly kept the keys of the donation box counting room without any formal written authorisation.

The SIT further stated that Tinnu had recommended the appointment of Manish Kumar Yadav for counting work, and Manish was later found allegedly involved in the theft.

Trust meeting and ongoing investigation

The preliminary report was submitted to the government on June 23 by the three-member SIT comprising Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, Lucknow Range IG Kiran S and Finance Department Special Secretary Neel Ratan.

Investigators have clarified that the current findings are only preliminary and that the probe is continuing into:

• Additional security failures

• Possible involvement of other individuals

• Responsibility of officials

• Systemic weaknesses in donation management

• Measures needed to prevent future thefts

A final report with detailed recommendations is expected to be submitted after completion of the investigation.

 The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is set to take crucial decisions on Monday as it convenes its first meeting since allegations of theft of devotees' offerings at the Ayodhya Ram Temple surfaced. The meeting, chaired by Trust President Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, is expected to deliberate on the resignations of General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Dr. Anil Mishra, while reviewing developments in the ongoing investigation into the alleged donation theft.

Originally scheduled to be held at Maniram Das Chhawani, the meeting has been shifted to the Ram Mandir complex and will begin at 3 pm.

According to Trust sources, the resignations submitted by Champat Rai on June 26 and Dr. Anil Mishra are likely to be accepted through a majority decision of the trustees. Since its formation on February 5, 2020, every Trust meeting had previously been led by Champat Rai in his capacity as General Secretary.

Under the Trust's constitution, the resignation of a trustee or office-bearer does not become effective immediately upon submission. It requires formal consideration and acceptance by the Trust during a meeting. Similarly, the removal of a trustee requires a two-thirds majority after issuing a show-cause notice and providing an opportunity for the concerned individual to present their case.

The Trust meeting comes amid heightened scrutiny following allegations that employees responsible for counting devotees' offerings siphoned off cash and valuables. Investigators have reportedly recovered deleted CCTV footage with the assistance of forensic and IT experts. While the visuals allegedly show individuals concealing currency notes in their socks and pockets, police are continuing efforts to enhance the footage to establish clear identities.

Trust President Mahant Nritya Gopal Das broke his silence over the controversy, describing the alleged theft as deeply painful.

In a written statement, he said he was "deeply hurt" by the incident and demanded the strictest possible punishment for those responsible. He also expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath would ensure that all those involved face appropriate legal action. Appealing for restraint, he urged people not to politicise an issue that concerns the faith of millions of devotees.

Meanwhile, the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court dismissed a petition seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the alleged theft. The court observed that a similar matter is already pending before the Supreme Court, making further intervention unnecessary at this stage.

The petition had been filed by Lucknow-based advocate Mohit Ashok on June 12, requesting an independent central investigation into the allegations.

The controversy has also intensified political exchanges in Uttar Pradesh. Congress leader Imran Masood termed the alleged theft a serious breach of public faith, claiming that the scale of donations received by the temple warranted a thorough investigation.

On the other hand, BJP spokesperson R.P. Singh said the Trust meeting would not only review the progress of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe but also discuss the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer and examine the Trust's financial statements for the previous financial year.

Samajwadi Party leaders continued to target the Trust's functioning, while BJP leaders accused the opposition of attempting to politicise the issue and tarnish the image of the Ram Temple.

The police investigation has also uncovered financial transactions allegedly linked to one of the arrested accused, Avinash Shukla, who was involved in counting donations. Investigators claim that despite drawing a monthly salary of around ₹15,000, he allegedly purchased a house, bought a vehicle, transferred money to his girlfriend, and gifted her an iPhone. Authorities are now examining the bank accounts of the accused as well as those of their family members to trace suspected proceeds.

Security has been tightened around the temple complex ahead of the Trust meeting, with barricades installed and vehicle movement restricted near the venue. The outcome of Monday's deliberations is expected to shape the Trust's administrative future while also influencing public confidence in the management of one of India's most prominent religious institutions.

The Special Investigation Team has identified around 150 suspects in the alleged donation theft case, with nearly 25 individuals likely to face action.

The Special Investigation Team probing the alleged theft of donations from the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is expected to submit its findings to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday, with sources indicating that top temple trust officials could face removal.

The SIT, which completed its sixth day of investigation on Saturday, has questioned around 150 suspects in connection with the case. Nearly 25 individuals may face action based on the evidence gathered so far, according to sources familiar with the probe.

SIT Wraps Probe, Heads to Lucknow

The three-member panel, comprising Lucknow Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, IG Range Kiran S., and Finance Department Special Secretary Neelratan, is expected to return to Lucknow on Saturday evening after a week-long investigation in Ayodhya.

Sources said the team spent nearly six hours inside the temple complex on Friday, questioning Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai, trustee Dr Anil Mishra, and construction in-charge Gopal Rao separately. Investigators also interrogated State Bank of India officials, including the branch manager and cashier.

Action on the Cards

According to sources, action against Champat Rai and Dr Anil Mishra is being actively considered. Both could be removed from their positions on the trust. Gopal Rao may also face similar action.

Investigators also attempted to question Anand, Gopal Rao's nephew, and temple employee Somesh Anand, but both were reportedly unavailable, with their phones switched off.

Recovery So Far

The SIT has recovered approximately ₹2 crore based on information provided by five accused — Lavkush, Avneesh, Anukalp, Karune and Ramshankar alias Tinnu. All five were associated with counting donations collected at the temple.

Gold was recovered from Tinnu's residence on June 13, though officials have not yet disclosed the quantity or value of the recovered items.

How the Controversy Unfolded

The issue first came to light on June 7 when former Uttar Pradesh minister Pawan Pandey alleged that between ₹5 crore and ₹7.5 crore had been stolen from the Ram Mandir. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also questioned the government's silence, calling for judicial scrutiny.

Trust General Secretary Champat Rai initially rejected the allegations, stating that no evidence of theft had surfaced. As the controversy escalated, BJP leader Dr Rajneesh Singh wrote to the Prime Minister on June 9 seeking a CBI investigation. A day later, the Prime Minister's Office sought a report from the trust.

Mahakumbh Donations Under Scrutiny

The SIT has widened its probe to examine donation records from the Prayagraj Mahakumbh period, when more than five crore devotees visited the Ram Mandir over 66 days. Investigators are questioning how donations collected through temple donation boxes remained below ₹100 crore despite the massive footfall.

The probe has expanded to Somesh Anand, a relative of Gopal Rao and head of the temple's wheelchair service. Investigators are examining his role in temple operations.

On June 18, the SIT questioned temple employees Mayank, Shivam Pandey, Ashish Dubey and Ratnesh. Ashish Agnihotri, who assisted in managing gold, silver and other valuables offered to Ram Lalla, has also been questioned. Employee Phoolkant Mishra, involved in the custody of donated jewellery, has come under scrutiny.

Claim of Missing Consecrated Stones

Fresh questions have emerged with Dharm Sena founder Santosh Dubey alleging that 1,250 consecrated Shri Ram stones made of gold, silver, diamonds, gemstones and ashtadhatu have gone missing. According to Dubey, the stones were brought to Ayodhya in 1989 after being worshipped across India and abroad, remaining at Karsevakpuram until 2002.

While the consecrated clay stones are still preserved, the metal stones are no longer visible, Dubey claimed, questioning the responsibility of Champat Rai for their upkeep.

Public Reactions

VHP leader Surendra Jain said allegations against the temple trust are not new and none have been proven so far. "At first, we felt these were routine political allegations, but when they started coming from other sources, we treated them with utmost seriousness," he said.

Hanumangarhi chief priest Mahant Sanjay Das stated that the SIT investigation would expose the truth. "The truth will come out, and whoever is found responsible will face the strictest action, no matter how influential they may be," he said.

Political Responses

Union Minister B.L. Verma backed the SIT probe, accusing critics of politicising the issue. "Some people are trying to politicise this. Those raising questions are the same people who opposed the Ram Mandir movement in the past," he said.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya urged political leaders to avoid premature conclusions. "Making allegations is one thing; proving them is another. If any wrongdoing has taken place, those responsible will certainly be punished," he said.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav renewed his demand for a detailed accounting of valuables offered at the temple, saying the public now wants "gold separated from gold and silver from silver."

CEO Appointment on the Cards

Sources said the Uttar Pradesh government is considering appointing a Chief Executive Officer for the Ram Mandir, modelled on the administrative structure at Kashi Vishwanath Temple. A senior IAS officer could oversee the trust's administrative and financial affairs, strengthening transparency and accountability. Discussions are underway between the government and the trust, though no final decision has been taken.

The controversy over alleged donation irregularities at the Ram Temple took a new turn on Saturday after temple authorities formally requested Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to order a Special Investigation Team probe. The demand comes as investigators recovered ₹10 lakh in cash from the residence of a temple employee who had allegedly concealed the money beneath a pile of cow dung.

Lavkush Mishra, a 27-year-old employee responsible for counting donation offerings at the shrine, is now under the scanner. A search team visited his residence in Minapur Thakuran Phagauli village, Rudauli area, where they found the stash hidden inside cupboards, boxes, and partially buried under dried cow dung.

Cow Dung Discovery

The search party comprised six individuals, including two in police uniform and four in plain clothes, according to village residents. Mishra's father, Bacchulal, confirmed the recovery but stopped short of claiming ownership of the cash.

"What had to happen has now happened. During the search, ₹10 lakh was recovered," the father told reporters. He added that a house being constructed in Faizabad had no connection to his son, claiming he had mortgaged 10-12 bighas of farmland to fund that project.

From Mechanic to Temple Employee

Villagers recall that Mishra, who previously worked as a car mechanic, experienced a sharp improvement in his financial situation after joining the temple four to five months ago. Locals said he would spend generously during village visits—on one occasion reportedly treating fellow villagers with ₹50,000 worth of liquor.

Mishra married eight years ago and has two children—a six-year-old son and a two-year-old daughter. His father works at the iron market in Ghaziabad.

Trust Moves Fast

Nripendra Mishra, chairman of the temple's construction committee, arrived in Ayodhya on Saturday for the second time within five days. When questioned by reporters about whether the donation controversy would feature in discussions, he deflected, stating his responsibility remained overseeing construction progress.

Sources familiar with the matter said the trust's letter to the chief minister seeks a thorough investigation into the alleged theft of offerings, which some claims have pegged at around ₹7 crore. The exact scale remains unverified.

Old Complaints Surface

The row gained traction after Mahipal Singh, who claims to have served as the temple's accounts in-charge, alleged that theft of offerings was routine. He said he was removed from his post the day after reporting irregularities to trust general secretary Champat Rai.

Singh also claimed that eight-month-old CCTV footage was deleted and that no proper records existed for gold, silver, and jewellery received as offerings. His assertions have found support from some saints and seers in Ayodhya, who are now demanding a probe.

Political Fallout

Opposition leaders have seized on the developments. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav questioned why private companies were involved in counting temple offerings and why CCTV footage remains unavailable. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak hit back, accusing Yadav of spreading rumours and disrespecting Supreme Court verdicts.

The recovered cash has been sent for examination, though officials have yet to determine whether it originated from temple donations. Meanwhile, the trust has not issued any formal statement on Mishra's employment status.