On 20th June, the Special Investigation Team (SIT), investigating the alleged theft of offerings at the Ram Mandir, completed its six-day probe in Ayodhya and returned to Lucknow with evidence, bank records, CCTV footage and statements.
According to media reports, 150 people have come under scrutiny. Action might be initiated against around 25 people. The investigators have reportedly directed some individuals not to leave their locations without permission. The SIT is expected to submit its preliminary report to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath by late Sunday or Monday.
Temple functionaries and financial records examined
Media reports suggest that investigators repeatedly questioned Ram Shankar Yadav alias Tinnu. He has been described as an influential figure in the temple administration. Investigators collected details about his associates, relatives and properties.
Furthermore, the SIT examined CCTV footage, donation records, cash-counting procedures, the transportation of offerings to banks and financial documents dating back to 2021. Bank officials and representatives of the private agency involved in counting donations were also questioned by officials. Some media reports suggest that CCTV footage is only available for 45 days as the older footage gets deleted automatically.
Media reports quoted unconfirmed and unnamed sources as saying that there have been discussions about initiating action against Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Dr Anil Mishra. Temple construction in-charge Gopal Rao has also come under scrutiny. No official decision has been announced.
Cash and valuables worth Rs 2 crore recovered
Media reports suggest that cash and valuables worth Rs 2 crore have been recovered based on information provided by five people associated with the donation-counting process. On 13th June, gold was reportedly recovered from Tinnu’s residence. However, officials have not disclosed the quantity.
The controversy began after former Samajwadi Party minister Pawan Pandey claimed that between Rs 5 crore and Rs 7.5 crore had been stolen from temple offerings. Champat Rai denied the allegations.
Nripendra Misra, Chairman of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Construction Committee, called the alleged theft an “open loot” and sought an overhaul of the temple’s management system.
Meanwhile, the government and the temple trust are reportedly considering appointing a CEO to oversee financial management, administration and transparency in handling donations.
