Ayodhya Bar chief demands CBI probe, says no legal defence for Ram Temple fund accused

Ayodhya Bar Association on Monday put bar on lawyers on representing any accused of alleged Shri Ram Mandir donation fund theft controversy.

Talking to media after a meeting of the Bar, Kalika Prasad Mishra, Association President of Ayodhya Bar Association, said legal action would be initiated against Champat Rai, Gopal Rao, and Anil Mishra.

In addition, he demanded a CBI investigation into the alleged irregularities and fund management of the trust. He said,

"No lawyer will represent the accused. If a lawyer represents them, they will have to deposit ₹5 lakh per name into the association's contribution fund. Action will be initiated under Section 173 of the CrPC to file a case against Champat Rai, Gopal Rao, and Anil Mishra. A CBI investigation will be demanded... If necessary, the Ayodhya Advocates Association will approach the Supreme Court and High Court at its own expense..."

Prosecution Committee Formed

The Ayodhya Bar Association formed a special committee of around 15 to 20 senior criminal law advocates to handle the prosecution side of the matter. The committee members have been authorised to represent the prosecution and an official letter regarding the decision will be issued soon.

Mishra said that people were raising questions about the alleged misuse of religious donations. He stated that many devotees were also questioning the purpose of making offerings if such funds could allegedly be misappropriated.

Demand for Wider Investigation

The Bar Association claimed that while some accused persons currently in jail have been formally charged, there are concerns about the involvement of other individuals as well.

According to Mishra, the alleged scale of the incident raises questions about whether it could have happened without the knowledge of other people connected with the matter. The association has demanded that the investigation cover all possible angles.

Latest Development

The controversy continues to grow as legal bodies and authorities examine the allegations. The demand for a CBI inquiry has added pressure for a wider and independent investigation into the alleged donation fund irregularities.

The case has attracted public attention because the donations involved are linked to a religious institution of major significance. Further action will depend on the outcome of the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings.

Ends.