New Delhi [India], June 26 : The investigation into the alleged theft of donation funds at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has intensified, with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) reportedly uncovering major leads.
Eight accused were produced before the court and have been sent to 14 days judicial custody.
According to sources, the SIT’s preliminary report has revealed around 70 suspected instances of donation theft and alleged misappropriation of temple funds. The probe claims CCTV footage and questioning of the accused helped investigators trace the alleged network.
Sources said the alleged scam may have continued for nearly 2–3 years. The investigation has also brought the names of some bank officials under the scanner, along with temple staff involved in counting donations.
Champat Rai Resigns, Takes Moral Responsibility
Since allegations surfaced over the handling of donations at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai faced intense criticism. As a senior official overseeing temple funds, Rai became a key focus of the controversy.
On Friday, Champat Rai resigned from his post, taking moral responsibility after the FIR was registered and eight people were arrested. Reports claim around Rs 7–7.5 crore may be missing in the alleged case.
Rai, a prominent figure associated with the Ram Mandir movement, resigned shortly after the arrest of his driver and close aide Ramashankar Yadav alias Tinnu. The other seven arrested include temple staff responsible for counting cash donations and a retired banker who supervised the process.
Rai had initially rejected the allegations of donation theft but later welcomed the SIT investigation ordered by the Uttar Pradesh government.
SIT Probe Reveals New Details
The SIT reportedly examined CCTV footage from the donation counting room and reviewed records over several days. Investigators are examining whether cash counting procedures were manipulated, including allegations of irregularities while preparing donation bundles.
Sources claim the accused made several important disclosures during questioning, revealing details about how the alleged theft network operated.
The preliminary findings reportedly point towards possible involvement of people responsible for counting donations, certain bank personnel and some trust office staff.
The matter has also triggered political reactions, with the Samajwadi Party alleging that influential people may have been protected during the investigation.
The SIT is continuing its probe, and more details are expected to emerge as investigators examine financial records, CCTV footage and statements of those involved.
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