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From oversight to ignoring complaints, SIT report questions Champat Rai ...
From oversight to ignoring complaints, SIT report questions Champat Rai ...
Champat Rai's role as the Ram Temple trust chief has come under intense scrutiny in connection with thedonation theftat the Ayodhya shrine with the Special Investigation Team raising serious questions on a deliberate oversight to previous ignoring complaints, sources said.
Rai resigned as the Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra General Secretary on Friday after the SIT arrested people in the case with some of the accused being his close associates.
The SIT report, which examined CCTV footage recorded between April 27 and June 5, allegedly found that employees involved in counting temple donations were seen stealing cash on nearly 70 occasions over a span of 40 days. Sources said the report claims that all those arrested in the case had been assigned to the donation counting process on the recommendation of Champat Rai and Anil Mishra.
It also alleges that Anil Mishra facilitated the appointment of several close associates without adequate background verification.
Champat Rai did not directly handled the surveillance and donation-counting operations at the temple, instead he reportedly delegated to other offi…
Ram Temple funds probe widens, SIT asks officials to stay in Ayodhya
Ram Temple funds probe widens, SIT asks officials to stay in Ayodhya
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of funds in the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has instructed the office-bearers of its trust and temple functionaries not to leave Ayodhya, according to temple sources.
The instruction by the three-member SIT was issued before they left forLucknowon Sunday.
According to the temple sources, the daily investigation reports, including those related to the questioning of trust officials and other persons connected with the investigation, have been saved in digital form and the report will be given the final shape before being presented to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Adityanath.
At the same time, the SIT was sending reports of its findings to the Chief Minister's Office on a daily basis, they said.
The sources said that the SIT's probe did not remain limited to investigating the alleged embezzlement of funds, but has also covered the purchases of land in different phases by the temple trust and also the procurement of building materials for the temple.
The temple trust had allegedly purchased land above the market rates. The issue had been vocally rai…
'Has it become a crime to have darshan of Lord Ram?': Congress alleges ...
'Has it become a crime to have darshan of Lord Ram?': Congress alleges ...
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Ajay Rai put under house arrest ahead of Ayodhya visit (Image/PTI)
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Monday alleged that its Uttar Pradesh unit chief Ajay Rai was positioned under house arrest a day earlier than a high-level occasion delegation was scheduled to visit Ayodhya and provide prayers on the Ram Temple.
The occasion claimed the motion was taken to forestall the delegation from visiting Ayodhya amid the continuing controversy over the alleged embezzlement of funds associated to the Ram Temple.
In a late night publish on X, the Uttar Pradesh Congress stated, “Has it now become a crime in UP to even have darshan of Lord Shri Ram?”
The occasion stated a Congress delegation led by state president Ajay Rai was scheduled to visit Ayodhya on Tuesday to provide prayers on the Ram Temple. It alleged that the BJP authorities, ‘scared of this journey’, had began taking ‘cowardly actions’.
It additionally alleged that Pratapgarh district Congress president Neeraj Tripathi was detained by police with none motive.
“Lord Shri Ram does not belong to any one political party or ideology, but is a symbol of the faith …
Why the Ram Mandir donation row has become a major political issue
Why the Ram Mandir donation row has become a major political issue
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has begun its probe intoallegations of misappropriation of donations and valuables at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, even as the controversy snowballed into a major political issue with opposition parties, religious leaders and temple saints demanding a thorough investigation.
Speaking in Ayodhya on Monday, Nripendra Mishra, Chairman of the Ram Temple Construction Committee, said there will not be any laxity in the probe.
He added, “The speed with which the state government has taken a decision is commendable… The SIT team requested a meeting with the Chief Minister for guidance and blessings today. Immediately thereafter, they came here and started their work. Whatever cooperation the SIT seeks, the district administration will provide. I spoke to the district administration yesterday and they have also assured full cooperation.”
Thedonation row has emerged as a sensitive issuein Ayodhya, placing both the temple administration and the state government under scrutiny, the findings of the investigation are likely to be closely watched by political parties, religious leaders and devo…
'Catch the thieves, not critics': Congress slams VHP over Ayodhya temple donation probe letter
'Catch the thieves, not critics': Congress slams VHP over Ayodhya temple donation probe letter
The Congress has accused the VHP and BJP of attempting to deflect from the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation theft investigation. Following VHP president Alok Kumar's request for opposition leaders to provide evidence, Congress leader Pawan Khera questioned why the onus was on accusers instead of investigators. He alleged the real motive is to emotionally exploit Hindus rather than find culprits.
Ram Mandir Trust Not Answerable To Govt: MHA's 2025 Stand In Focus Amid ...
Ram Mandir Trust Not Answerable To Govt: MHA's 2025 Stand In Focus Amid ...
Ram Mandir Trust Not Answerable To Govt: Why MHA’s 2025 Clarification Is Back In Focus Amid Ayodhya Ram Mandir Donation Theft Investigation
The phrase
Ram Mandir Trust Not Answerable To Govt
has once again become one of the most discussed topics across India following the ongoing donation theft controversy linked to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. As investigations continue into alleged financial irregularities involving temple donations, attention has shifted back to a clarification made by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in 2025.
The MHA had informed the Central Information Commission (CIC) that the Ram Mandir Trust functions independently and is not accountable to either the Central Government or the Uttar Pradesh Government for its day-to-day decisions. This official position is now drawing renewed public and political interest as the donation theft investigation progresses.
What Did the MHA Say in 2025?
In its submission before the Central Information Commission, the Ministry of Home Affairs clarified that the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was established as an autonomous…
Ram Temple donation theft controversy: 'I was outside, why didn't you ...
Ram Temple donation theft controversy: 'I was outside, why didn't you ...
Ram Temple donation theft controversy: ‘I was outside, why didn’t you wait…’, Champat Rai’s letter to SIT goes viral, blames bank
Uttar Pradesh
There has been a stir from Ayodhya to Delhi ever since the revelation of theft from the donation box in Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple. Champat Rai, the outgoing General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, who was silent till now in this entire episode, has finally broken his silence. Two letters have come out from their side to clarify the situation. The first letter he has shared on his official ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) handle addressed to Ram devotees. But what is being discussed the most is his second letter, which he wrote to the SIT and it is now becoming increasingly viral on social media. In this viral letter, Champat Rai has raised many sharp questions on the security arrangements of the bank and the functioning of the SIT.
‘I was out so why wasn’t my signature waited for?’ In the letter written to SIT which is going viral on social media, Champat Rai has directly rejected the guidelines of counting process (SOP). According to the letter, the …
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
Ram Mandir Robbery and Rise of Hindutva Thug Republic
Ram Mandir Robbery and Rise of Hindutva Thug Republic
“Anta unnatīchā patanīṁ hoi yā jagāntSarva saṅgrahāchā vatsā, nāś hācha anta”
“In this world, every rise is followed by decline.Every accumulation, dear one, ends in loss”
These lines from the famous Marathi poet G.D.Madgulkar’s Geet Ramayan, rendered soulfully by Sudhir Phadke, depict Lord Ram advising his brother Bharat not to beseech him to return to Ayodhya. On his way to exile into the forest, Ram frames his banishment as being nobody’s fault except his own and argues that “Man lives subject to forces greater than himself.”
It is poetry that very poignantly captures one of the central themes of Hindu philosophy over the centuries, about the acceptance of fate, the impermanence of worldly things, and the duty to uphold righteousness despite personal suffering.
It is a message that seems to be completely lost on the likes of Champat Rai, General Secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra currently under a cloud for theft of crores of rupees worth of jewels, gold, silver and cash missing from the grand temple for Ram in Ayodhya. The accusations involve not just missing valuables but manipulated accounting record…
Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Probe: SIT to Review Five Years Of Audits ...
Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Probe: SIT to Review Five Years Of Audits ...
Ayodhya:
In the Ayodhya Ram Mandir donation theft case, the special investigation team (SIT) will now scrutinize the audits conducted by the temple trust over the past five years. In view of suspected large-scale irregularities in the donation funds detected during the preliminary investigation, the SIT will conduct a detailed scrutiny of every financial transaction, sources told Times Now.
As part of this exercise, the SIT will identify lapses, irregularities, or shortcomings in the audit process. Notably, the SIT has also recovered some crucial evidence during the probe. Senior office-bearers of the Temple Trust could come under the scanner as the investigation progresses, the sources further claimed. The SIT will also examine construction-related works undertaken by the trust. The SIT is scheduled to submit its report to the Uttar Pradesh government on July 15.
During its preliminary inquiry, the SIT examined the criminal aspects of the case, based on which an FIR was registered. According to sources, SIT officials have been continuously stationed in Ayodhya and are collecting evidence.
Crucial
Ram Temple…
UP SIT to Probe Missing Donations at Ram Temple - newkerala.com
UP SIT to Probe Missing Donations at Ram Temple - newkerala.com
Uttar Pradesh News
Updated Jun 13, 2026
UP Forms SIT to Probe Missing Donations at Ayodhya Ram Mandir
The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations of missing donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The controversy erupted after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav claimed crores of rupees in offerings were missing. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust requested the SIT probe to address misleading information and rumors. Prakash Gupta, the trust camp office in-charge, suggested the miscalculation may have occurred during the counting of money from donation boxes.
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Jun 13, 2026
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UP govt forms SIT to probe allegations of 'missing donations' at Ram Mandir
Lucknow, June 13
Following the directions of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state government has constituted a Special Investigation Team to probe the alleged irregularities of monetary offerings made at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
According to sources, the SIT comprises Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, Inspector …
'There was not pressure on Champat Rai to resign': VHP's Alok Kumar on ...
'There was not pressure on Champat Rai to resign': VHP's Alok Kumar on ...
Amid the ongoing investigation into the alleged theft of donations at the Ram Temple, Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) International President Alok Kumar, in an exclusive interview with India TV, defended the temple trust's handling of the matter and asserted that former trust officialChampat Raistepped down voluntarily without any external pressure. Alok Kumar said Champat Rai took responsibility by initiating a series of decisive measures after the allegations surfaced.
According to him, Rai played a key role in ensuring transparency by facilitating an SIT probe, allowing questioning to begin, directing the trust to lodge an FIR, and extending full cooperation with investigators.
"Champat Rai resigned on his own. There was no pressure from anyone. The trust's foremost priority is to identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice," Kumar said, adding that the resignation reflected accountability rather than compulsion.
Taking a swipe at opposition leaders, Alok Kumar questioned their moral authority to demand Champat Rai's resignation. He claimed that several political leaders had continue…
Ram Temple 'donation theft': Cops suspect embezzlement may not have been isolated act
Ram Temple 'donation theft': Cops suspect embezzlement may not have been isolated act
The Ram temple donation embezzlement probe has intensified, now scrutinizing bank officials involved in handling cash deposits. Police are seeking custody of eight arrested individuals for in-depth interrogation to uncover the full extent of the alleged scam and recover more funds. Investigators are meticulously examining banking protocols and financial trails, suspecting potential collusion and evidence manipulation.
APCC demands judicial probe into Ayodhya Ram temple donation case
APCC demands judicial probe into Ayodhya Ram temple donation case
Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has betrayed the faith of millions through irregularities involving hundreds of crores of rupees, says Shivaji
Ram Temple donation row: Nripendra Misra hails UP govt's 'quick' SIT ...
Ram Temple donation row: Nripendra Misra hails UP govt's 'quick' SIT ...
Ram Temple donation row: Nripendra Misra hails UP govt's 'quick' SIT formation
By
IANS
| Updated:
June 14, 2026 12:30 IST
2026-06-14T12:28:27+5:30
2026-06-14T12:30:13+5:30
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Ayodhya, June 14 Ram Mandir Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Misra on Sunday praised the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led ...
Ram Temple donation row: Nripendra Misra hails UP govt's 'quick' SIT formation
Ayodhya, June 14 Ram Mandir Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Misra on Sunday praised the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government for its quick response in constituting a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the alleged irregularities of monetary offerings made at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
Notably, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust had requested a comprehensive investigation by an SIT.
Addressing reporters, Misra said: "The most important thing that should be appreciated is that the state government acted within less than 24 hours and constituted an SIT."
"The SIT includes very senior officers. There is a Divisional Commissioner, senior police officers …
Ram Temple funds row: SP seeks removal of trust members, probe by ...
Ram Temple funds row: SP seeks removal of trust members, probe by ...
Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad demanded removal of all present trust members from their posts till completion of the probe claiming they will "influence and tamper" the investigation
Ram Mandir construction committee chairperson Nripendra Mishra on Sunday welcomed the Uttar Pradesh government's decision to constitute a special investigation team (SIT) to probe alleged irregularities in the Ram temple donation funds, describing it as a significant move.
Interacting with reporters at the Faizabad Circuit House in Ayodhya, Mishra said, "Formation of the SIT shows government's promptness and it is a significant action."
Faizabad Samajwadi Party MP, Awadhesh Prasad, however, demanded removal of all present trust members from their posts till completion of the probe claiming they will "influence and tamper" the investigation.
Expressing scepticism over the SIT probe, Prasad said the matter should be investigated by a committee headed by sitting judges of the Supreme Court.
Prominent leader of Ram Janmabhoomi movement and former BJP MP Vinay Katiyar said the allegation of irregularities in the temple donation …
Ram temple trust confirms general secretary Champat Rai's ...
Ram temple trust confirms general secretary Champat Rai's ...
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Saturday confirmed that itsgeneral secretary Champat Raiand its trustee member Anil Mishra have tendered their resignations and assured that a fair inquiry will be conducted into allegations related to the Ram temple donations.
A statement from the temple Trust, issued by its treasurer Govind Dev Giri, said that the Trust has received the two resignations and will take a decision on them at its next meeting.
The Trust said that they are shocked, hurt and deeply saddened by the recent developments and are duty-bound to ensure that a fair inquiry is conducted and the faith of devotees is restored.
Eight persons named in an FIRover the alleged embezzlement of donations received at the Ram temple in Ayodhya were arrested on Thursday night, according to police.
Seeking to reassure devotees, the trust said that all valuables personally handed by devotees as offerings to Lord Ram, including silver bricks and jewellery, were safe and properly accounted for.
"The trust assures those devotees who personally handed over items--such as silver bricks and jewellery--to Trust officials…
SIT has full freedom, says RSS leader on Ram Temple donation probe ...
SIT has full freedom, says RSS leader on Ram Temple donation probe ...
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SIT has full freedom, says RSS leader on Ram Temple donation probe; warns against politicising matter
By:
Agencies
Date:
June 28, 2026
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New Delhi, June 28 : RSS National Executive Member Indresh Kumar on Sunday said the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations and ‘chadhava’ (offerings) at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has been given complete freedom to investigate the matter, while urging people not to politicise the issue and expressing confidence that any wrongdoing would be dealt with strictly.
Addressing the controversy surrounding the alleged misappropriation of temple donations, Kumar said the government, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) were taking all necessary steps to ensure justice.
He said, “SIT is doing an…
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Donation Row Supreme Court CBI Probe SIT Investigation
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Donation Row Supreme Court CBI Probe SIT Investigation
The alleged theft of devotees' donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has now reached the Supreme Court, with a petition seeking a court-monitored investigation into the case.
According to the petition, the matter should be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) should be constituted to conduct an impartial probe into the allegations.
The petition is expected to be taken up on July 13.
On June 29, a vacation bench of the Supreme Court declined to intervene immediately in the matter.
The court had said the petition would be listed before a regular bench after the summer vacation.
Regular court proceedings are scheduled to resume on July 13. The system-generated status of the petition indicates a possible listing on that date.
ALSO READ:Mamata Banerjee Slaps Man Outside Home Amid Political Chaos, Alleges BJP For 'Planned Attack'
However, the cause list for July 13 has not yet been released, and it is therefore not confirmed whether the matter will be heard that day.
The preliminary report prepared by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) investig…
BREAKING Ram Mandir theft case- Raid at homes of 8 accused: Police ...
BREAKING Ram Mandir theft case- Raid at homes of 8 accused: Police ...
English News
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Uttar pradesh
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Theft: Accused Homes Searched, Families Questioned
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Ram Mandir theft case- Raid at homes of 8 accused:
Police conduct simultaneous searches, families and neighbours questioned
Ayodhya
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Police conducted raids at the homes of the eight accused arrested in the Ram Mandir offering theft case at around 7 am on Sunday. Six police teams simultaneously searched the residences of the accused, questioning family members and gathering information from neighbours as part of the ongoing investigation.
During the operation, the house of the main accused, Ramshankar Yadav alias Tinnu, was found locked. Revenue officials, particularly local
Lekhpal
(revenue officers), also accompanied the police during the raids.
Police believe that a portion of the allegedly stolen offerings may have been hidden at the accused persons' homes and hope to recover evidence during the searches.
Eight accused arrested after FIR
The case stems from the first FIR registered on June 25 on the complaint of Ram Mandir Trust member Krishna Mohan. Eight people, including R…
'Won't leave without Ram Mandir darshan', says UP Congress chief Ajay ...
'Won't leave without Ram Mandir darshan', says UP Congress chief Ajay ...
A nine-member Congress delegation, which had announced its visit to Ayodhya to offer prayers at the Ram Temple on Tuesday, alleged that its leaders were detained at their hotels and guesthouses by the Uttar Pradesh administration.
Late in the night, the Congress delegation was allowed to offer prayers at Hanumangarhi and the Ram Temple under police escort, said party leaders.
“The BJP government is trying to hide something by first preventing our leaders from offering prayers and later permitting darshan under heavy security. What was the rationale behind it? asked state
Congress media department chairman and former minister C P Rai.
Earlier in the day, state Congress president Ajay Rai alleged that he had been picked up from his hotel and shifted to the Acharya Narendra Dev University guest house, where he claimed he had been placed under house arrest.
“I had reached Ayodhya a day earlier because we anticipated that something like this could happen. Despite that, we have been stopped from offering prayers,” Rai told The Indian Express over the phone.
Questioning the government’s action, Rai alleged th…
SIT asks Ram Temple trust functionaries not to leave Ayodhya as ...
SIT asks Ram Temple trust functionaries not to leave Ayodhya as ...
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has directed trust officials and temple functionaries not to leave the city, according to temple sources. The directive came after investigators reportedly detected discrepancies in records related to offerings, including gold, silver, and precious stones.
Sources said the instruction was issued by the three-member SIT before its members departed for Lucknow on Sunday.
According to sources, one of the SIT's key findings relates to the documentation of gold and silver jewellery, diamonds, and other precious stones offered by devotees at the Ram Temple. Investigators have reportedly uncovered discrepancies in the records and accounting of these valuable offerings.
Sources further claimed that during questioning, several trust officials were unable to provide satisfactory explanations regarding the inventory management, storage, and accounting procedures for gold, silver ornaments, and other valuables received as donations.
The sources also alleged that significant irregularities may have occurred d…
Ayodhya Temple Donation Row: Lord Ram Devotees Will Not Forgive BJP-RSS ...
Ayodhya Temple Donation Row: Lord Ram Devotees Will Not Forgive BJP-RSS ...
ETV Bharat
/
bharat
Ayodhya Temple Donation Row: Lord Ram Devotees Will Not Forgive BJP-RSS, Says Congress
"Neither were people chosen and appointed by the Trust investigated, nor any background scrutiny done": UP Congress CLP Aradhana Misra | Santu Das reports.
Aradhana Misra, Congress Legislature Party leader in UP Assembly
(
ETV Bharat
)
By
ETV Bharat English Team
Published :
July 4, 2026 at 4:48 PM IST
3
Min Read
New Delhi:
Launching a blistering attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) over alleged embezzlement of funds in the Ram Temple in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya, the Congress on Saturday categorically stated they [BJP & RSS] can't distance themselves from the matter, and that Lord Ram's devotees won't forgive them.
Notably, the Congress has been demanding a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the matter.
Addressing a press conference at the party office here, Congress Legislature Party (CLP) Leader in Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Aradhana Misra, alleged that under the supervision of people affiliated with BJP-RSS, the grave sin of stealing offerings has been committ…
Ram Temple theft row: UP CM Yogi calls out Congress, SP with 'chameleon' dig
Ram Temple theft row: UP CM Yogi calls out Congress, SP with 'chameleon' dig
A day after the Ram Mandir Trust accepted the resignation of Champat Rai from the position of general secretary, Yogi accused the rival political parties, Congress and the Samajwadi Party, of "making a mockery of Hindu faith" -- the same allegation the opposition has been levelling against the BJP. Yogi futher asked why the anti-NDA bloc remained muted when hectares of land across the nation were "sold off in the name of the Wakf".
All valuable articles donated to Ram temple safe; over 30 kg gold-like ...
All valuable articles donated to Ram temple safe; over 30 kg gold-like ...
ANI
Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj, Treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust
Ayodhya: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust currently holds over 30 kg of gold-like items and 1,518 kg of silver-like items among other valuables donated by devotees, its treasurer
Swami Govind Dev Giri
said on Tuesday amid the row over alleged embezzlement of donations at the temple.
Giri told PTI that all 2,926 valuable articles donated to the temple were "safe" and their records maintained.
He gave the details of the donations after the Trust on Monday displayed several of the offerings to the temple like a gold 'Ramcharitmanas' and a diamond-studded necklace before the media here.
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A silver 'charan paduka' and silver 'Kakbhushundi' artefact, which some social media posts had claimed were among the missing items or unaccounted for, were also displayed before media personnel here.
Live Events
The Trust said the valuables included gold, silver and diamond-studded ornaments, artefacts, crowns, necklaces, 'charan pa…
Ram Mandir donation row: Probe team flags lapses in counting cash, CCTV ...
Ram Mandir donation row: Probe team flags lapses in counting cash, CCTV ...
Ram Mandir donation row: Probe team flags lapses in counting cash, CCTV checks
The SIT probing alleged theft and misappropriation of
Ayodhya Ram Temple
donations has reported lapses in cash handling, hiring and surveillance. The findings also widened scrutiny to valuables, Maha Kumbh donations, land purchases and procurement.
A three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged theft and misappropriation of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple has found serious lapses at multiple levels, according to sources.
The probe has reportedly flagged negligence in the handling of donation cash, employee verification, CCTV monitoring and the movement of offerings from the temple premises to the trust office and eventually to the bank.
According to sources, the SIT, constituted on June 13 by the Uttar Pradesh government, found that the State Bank of India (SBI), which manages banking operations for the Ram Temple Trust, was responsible for sorting, stacking and counting currency notes received as offerings.
For this process, SBI engaged employees through a private security agency based in Varanasi.
Howe…
Ram temple probe: SIT asks trust and temple functionaries not to leave ...
Ram temple probe: SIT asks trust and temple functionaries not to leave ...
Agencies
Ayodhya (UP), The
Special Investigation Team
(SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of funds in the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has instructed the office-bearers of its trust and temple functionaries not to leave Ayodhya, according to temple sources.
The instruction by the three-member SIT was issued before they left for Lucknow on Sunday.
According to the temple sources, the daily investigation reports, including those related to the questioning of trust officials and other persons connected with the investigation, have been saved in digital form and the report will be given the final shape before being presented to
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Adityanath
.
At the same time, the SIT was sending reports of its findings to the Chief Minister's Office on a daily basis, they said.
The sources said that the SIT's probe did not remain limited to investigating the alleged embezzlement of funds, but has also covered the purchases of land in different phases by the temple trust and also the procurement of building materials for the temple.
Live Events
The temple trust had allegedly purchased land above the marke…
U.P. Congress delegation allowed to pray at Ram Temple after face-off with Ayodhya administration
U.P. Congress delegation allowed to pray at Ram Temple after face-off with Ayodhya administration
“An impartial investigation is not happening,” State chief Ajay Rai said on the temple donations embezzlement case
Can VHP campaign to free temples survive Ram Temple 'theft' row ...
Can VHP campaign to free temples survive Ram Temple 'theft' row ...
The recent allegedembezzlement of donations at the Ram Janmabhoomi Templein Ayodhya has triggered fresh concerns within the Sangh Parivar about the long-running campaign of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) to liberate Hindu temples from government control.
While the VHP has officially maintained that the alleged theft will not derail its efforts, several voices within the broader Sangh ecosystem believe the campaign has suffered a significant setback.
“Abhi to lagta hai, yah abhiyan khatai mein pad gaya hai (it seems like the campaign has derailed),” remarked a senior VHP leader, suggesting the movement is currently caught in a dilemma.
The VHP has consistently highlighted the issue of government interference in temple affairs. In a resolution passed during its Board of Trustees meeting in Faridabad on July 17-18, 2021, the organisation urged the Centre “to enact a legislation handing over Hindu temples and religious institutions to Hindu society”.
The resolution emphasised that devotees offer donations according to their capacity to support religious, educational, health, and social activities run by temples, …
U'khand HC directs temple committee, govt to file response over misuse ...
U'khand HC directs temple committee, govt to file response over misuse ...
Nainital, Feb 17Hearing a PIL concerning the alleged misuse of funds released between 2012 and 2017 for the repair of the Badrinath and Kedarnath temples, the Uttarakhand High Court directed the state government and the temple committee to file their response within three weeks.
A division bench ofChief Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta and Justice Subhash Upadhyayhas scheduled the next hearing on the petition filed by Rishikesh resident Amit Sharma after three weeks.
The petition alleges misuse of funds released for the repair of the Badrinath and Kedarnath temples between 2012 and 2017.
It also alleges that funds were spent on temples that do not fall under the jurisdiction of the Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee.
The petition also claims that several illegal appointments were made without proper approval, and that preferred individuals were appointed to temple services in violation of prescribed rules.
The petitioner has requested the court to order an investigation into the matter.
Arvind Kejriwal Calls For Nationwide Social Boycott Of ... - OneIndia
Arvind Kejriwal Calls For Nationwide Social Boycott Of ... - OneIndia
Did They Loot Lord Ram? Kejriwal Escalates War On 'Chanda Chors' As Ayodhya Lawyers Boycott
India
-Oneindia Staff
By
Oneindia Staff
Updated: Monday, June 29, 2026, 19:13 [IST]
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Arvind Kejriwal has intensified his attack over alleged theft of offerings linked to the Ram temple, calling for a nationwide social boycott of those he described as “chanda chors” and their supporters. The Aam Aadmi Party national convener made the appeal after the Ayodhya Bar Association reportedly decided not to represent people accused in the matter.
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Arvind Kejriwal urged a nationwide social boycott of those accused of stealing Ram temple offerings, praising the Ayodhya Bar Association's reported decision to not represent the accused and framing the issue as one of religious accountability and public trust.
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Kejriwal welcomed the lawyers’ body’s decision in a post on X on Monday, June 29, 2026. He said the move showed that devotees had begun responding to his appeal. He also alleged that the government was standing with those accuse…
Champat Rai Accuses SBI of Lapses in Ram Temple Donation Theft
Champat Rai Accuses SBI of Lapses in Ram Temple Donation Theft
Updated 8 July 2026 at 19:32 IST
Deposed Ram Temple trust chief Champat Rai blames SBI for cash counting lapses and denies signing a controversial 2025 security guideline document.
Garvit Parashar
India News
6 min read
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Ram Temple Theft: Champat Rai Blames SBI for Lax Security
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In a major development in the ongoing Ram Temple donation theft case, Champat Rai, the recently deposed General Secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, has submitted a formal statement to the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Breaking his silence, Rai alleged severe lapses in the State Bank of India’s (SBI) cash counting processes and security arrangements, suggesting that proper safeguards could have prevented the multi-crore theft.
The one-page Hindi submission, dated July 6, directly questions the bank's operational protocols and distances Rai from controversial guidelines linked to the cash-handling process.
Rai Disowns 2025 Cash Counting Agreement
In his submission, Rai categorically disowned a document dated February 6, 2025, which detailed the joint guidelines for the temple's cash…
Ram Temple Donation Controversy Explained: What Triggered the SIT Probe ...
Ram Temple Donation Controversy Explained: What Triggered the SIT Probe ...
The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a three-member SIT to investigate allegations of financial irregularities and missing donation funds at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir trust.
The Uttar Pradesh government constituted a three-member Special Investigation Team to probe allegations of financial irregularities and embezzlement of donation funds at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered the SIT's formation following a formal request from the temple trust to counter misinformation and maintain public faith.
The political row erupted after Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav alleged that crores of rupees in temple donations were missing and called for judicial intervention.
The Uttar Pradesh government on Saturday formed a three-member Special Investigation Team to probe allegations of financial irregularities and embezzlement of donation funds at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya, officials said. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed the SIT's formation following a formal request from the trust.
The trust sought an impartial inqui…
'Not our job to...': VHP distances itself from Champat Rai as Ram ...
'Not our job to...': VHP distances itself from Champat Rai as Ram ...
As investigators widen their scrutiny of alleged theft and embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad has distanced itself from Champat Rai’s actions as General Secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The VHP has also called for a comprehensive investigation into the handling of devotees’ offerings as questions grow over the trust’s functioning.
Speaking to India Today TV, VHP International President Alok Kumar said the organisation did not accept responsibility for recent decisions taken by the Ram temple trust. He said the VHP’s role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement ended once the objective of ensuring that a temple was built at the site had been achieved.
“Our role is over. It is not the job of the VHP in any part of the country to construct temples or to run them. The trust would run them and what happens in the trust would be the responsibility of the trust,” he said, adding that attempts to extend accountability to the RSS or the government would be inappropriate. “I am distancing myself with the actions of Shri Champat Rai in his capacity as the Gen…
A January Boycott, a July Standoff, and the 2027 Math — Why
A January Boycott, a July Standoff, and the 2027 Math — Why
UP Congress chief Ajay Rai's insistence on Ram Mandir darshan despite alleged house arrest in Ayodhya, according to Indian Express and India Today, is a deliberate soft-Hindutva pivot — a strategic attempt to reclaim Hindu identity politics from the BJP by fusing the Ram Mandir donation-theft controversy with a public display of faith ahead of the 2027 UP assembly elections.
Think about the image for a moment. A Congress president — in Uttar Pradesh, the state where the party's 'anti-Hindu' label has been its electoral millstone for three decades — refusing to leave Ayodhya until he completes darshan at the Ram Mandir. Not protesting its construction. Not boycotting the consecration. Demanding entry. The tableau is worth more than a hundred press conferences, and every party strategist in Lucknow knows it.
UP Congress chief Ajay Rai was allegedly placed under house arrest at a hotel in Ayodhya ahead of a planned visit to the Ram Mandir, according to Indian Express and India Today. A Congress delegation had arrived in the temple town, ostensibly to take darshan at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple. Police reportedly prevented t…
'Not true Ram bhakts': Congress questions PM Modi's silence on Ayodhya ...
'Not true Ram bhakts': Congress questions PM Modi's silence on Ayodhya ...
The Congress on Saturday questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence over the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and demanded the immediate arrest of those behind the alleged "scam".
Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Congress spokesperson Akhilesh Prasad Singh said the entire case should be investigated under the supervision of a sitting Supreme Court judge because the alleged corruption was "deep-rooted".
He also demanded the immediate arrest of those in the trust against whom serious allegations have been made and called for the trust to be dissolved, saying it had lost the "people's trust".
The alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple has become a major political controversy after aSpecial Investigation Team (SIT) uncovered lapsesin the shrine's donation management system.Eight people associatedwith counting cash and valuables have been arrested in connection with the case.
Singh alleged that the episode showed BJP leaders were not "true Ram bhakts" because they had failed to uphold Lord Ram's 'maryada' by not ordering an investigation themselves.
"…
BKTC orders probe into allegations of expenditure on VIP hospitality at ...
BKTC orders probe into allegations of expenditure on VIP hospitality at ...
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Dehradun
BKTC orders probe into allegations of expenditure on VIP hospitality at Kedarnath
Dehradun
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By Arun Pratap Singh
Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 27 May:
The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has ordered an inquiry into allegations that money donated by devotees at Kedarnath Temple has been used for the hospitality and special arrangements of political leaders and VIP guests. The controversy erupted after details obtained through the Right to Information (RTI) Act claimed that expenses related to the stay, food and other arrangements of certain BJP leaders and their associates during visits to Kedarnath were borne by the temple committee. Some of the leaders including Kedarnath MLA Asha Nautiyal and BJP State Secretary Neha Joshi, who were alleged to have availed of this hospitality at the cost of BKTC funds have strongly denied the allegations and have also demanded a detailed inquiry into the allegations.
Following the allegations, BKTC constituted a four-member inquiry committee to investigate the matter in detail. The panel includes the committee’s…
Champat Rai: Ram Mandir trust General Secretary Champat Rai steps..
Champat Rai: Ram Mandir trust General Secretary Champat Rai steps..
Ram Mandir trust General Secretary Champat Rai steps down, Anil Mishra also quits
26-06-2026 Fri 14:27 | National | IANS
Ayodhya, June 26 : Days after alleged misappropriation of funds at the Ram Temple stirred a national controversy, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust chief Champat Rai and Trust member Anil Mishra stepped down from their positions, credible sources said.
According to information shared by the UP government's Director of Information, both the key Trust members have resigned from their positions. Both are understood to have stepped down on moral grounds.
The development comes as a major fallout of the donation controversy at the Ram Temple, which came as a shock to crores of devotees. According to reports, offerings and valuables worth hundreds of crores were misappropriated by the temple staff in connivance with bank officials.
As the temple trust is entrusted with the task of monitoring day-to-day operations and overseeing the management of chadhava (offerings) to Lord Ram, this comes as fixing accountability for the grave wrongdoings that went unchecked at the temple.
The resignations com…
Ram Mandir Donation Row: Trust confirms FIR, resignation
Ram Mandir Donation Row: Trust confirms FIR, resignation
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Donation Row: Trust Confirms FIR, Resignations
NEW DELHI: The managing body of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on June 26 confirmed that it has received the resignations submitted by General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, days after an alleged donation embezzlement case at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir triggered political and administrative scrutiny.
In an official press release, the trust stated that both resignations have been formally received and will be considered during its next meeting. No decision has yet been taken on whether the resignations will be accepted.
श्री राम जन्मभूमि तीर्थ क्षेत्र के कोषाध्यक्ष पूज्य स्वामी गोविन्द देव गिरी जी महाराज का वक्तव्य
Statement by the Treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, Pujya Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharajpic.twitter.com/I8goCrrEt9
— Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra (@ShriRamTeerth)June 27, 2026
The Trust mentioned in the release that it has expressed shock and deep distress over the recent incidents related to the Shri Ram Temple and assured devotees that it remains committed to ensuring a fair investigation whi…
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
Supreme Court declines urgent hearing on Ram Temple donation theft case ...
Supreme Court declines urgent hearing on Ram Temple donation theft case ...
The Supreme Court on Monday declined to grant an urgent hearing on a petition seeking an investigation into the alleged Ram Temple donation theft case. The court observed that there was no immediate need to hear the matter on an urgent basis and directed that it be listed before a regular Bench after the court vacations. The petition sought a court-monitored investigation into the alleged misappropriation of donations received by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. It has requested that the probe be conducted by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) under the supervision of the Supreme Court.
While hearing the plea seeking an early listing, the apex court made it clear that the matter does not warrant immediate intervention at this stage. "There is no need for an urgent hearing in this matter at present," the court said. It subsequently directed that the petition be listed before a regular Bench after the conclusion of the court vacations for further consideration.
The plea alleges financial irregularities in the handling of donations received by the S…
Mayawati says embezzlement of donations ‘serious’, cautions against politicising issue
Mayawati says embezzlement of donations ‘serious’, cautions against politicising issue
Mayawati’s post comes amid ongoing probes by Ayodhya Police and a state government-formed Special Investigation Team into the theft of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya
India's landmark Ram temple overhauls board after alleged theft of donations
India's landmark Ram temple overhauls board after alleged theft of donations
Questions have been raised over alleged theft of cash, valuable jewellery, gold and silver offered by devotees.
FPJ Exclusive: SIT Finds Management Failures & Administrative Lapses In ...
FPJ Exclusive: SIT Finds Management Failures & Administrative Lapses In ...
Ayodhya:
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged irregularities in the Ram Temple management has found evidence of administrative lapses and supervisory failures and has not given a clean chit to any office bearer, employee or person associated with the temple’s functioning, sources said.
A senior SIT official told this reporter that the investigation agency has flagged the roles of senior trust functionaries, including General Secretary Champat Rai, trustee Anil Mishra and construction aide Gopal Rao, while investigations into allegations of commission and irregular land transactions are still under way.
“We have not given a clean chit to any senior official. We have interrogated Champat Rai and have issued notices to 80 Ram Mandir Trust office bearers, including Anil Mishra. We have found a money trail,” the official said. Investigators have already recorded statements from several witnesses and are collecting documentary evidence. Gopal Rao, against whom multiple allegations have surfaced, also remains under the scanner. “The SIT is separately investigating allegations that trustee Anil Mis…
Ram Temple donation row: UP govt forms SIT to probe 'irregularities' on ...
Ram Temple donation row: UP govt forms SIT to probe 'irregularities' on ...
The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations of irregularities related to offerings made at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya.
Chief MinisterYogi Adityanathtook the decision after a formal request from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir Trust, seeking a detailed inquiry into the matter. The SIT has been tasked with conducting a swift and thorough investigation and submitting both preliminary and final reports at the earliest.
"The trust sought a thorough inquiry, calling it necessary to check misinformation and bring out the truth, alleging that attempts were being made to tarnish the image of the Ram temple and hurt the faith of millions of devotees," the government said in a statement.
The committee comprises senior officials from the state administration:
Earlier, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav expressed concern over reports claiming that crores of rupees donated for the Ram Temple were allegedly missing. He urged the court to take suo motu cognisance of the matter.
Describing the issue as highly sensitive for devotees…
Deeply distressed by theft of donations, matter shouldn't be ...
Deeply distressed by theft of donations, matter shouldn't be ...
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust President Mahant Nritya Gopal Das has expressed deep anguish over the alleged theft of donations from Ayodhya’s Ram Temple. He has demanded strictest punishment for all those responsible and urged people to not politicise the issue.
Expressing confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will ensure justice, Mahant Das has said that the matter should not be politicised for personal gain as it is linked to the faith of millions of Hindus, IANS reported.
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“I am deeply distressed by the theft of donations from the temple of Shri Ramlalla Sarkar. Whoever has committed this sin must face the severest possible punishment. I have full faith in the esteemed Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, and the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, that they will ensure punishment for anyone involved in this sinful act,” Mahant Das said in a statement.
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“This is a matter concerning the faith of crores of Hindus, and I urge that no one should engage in politics over this for personal gain,” he added.
His s…
Ram temple donation scam: Congress demands SC-monitored probe ...
Ram temple donation scam: Congress demands SC-monitored probe ...
Amid the row over alleged embezzlement of donations received at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, the Congress on Friday demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe and the dissolution of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
Hitting out at the BJP-RSS, the opposition party said the "self-proclaimed protectors of Hinduism" have been completely exposed with the revelations ofthe theft of donations at the Ram Templein Ayodhya.
Congress general secretary KC Venugopal said that after using Ayodhya for their divisive politics, the BJP-RSS "looted" from donations of ordinary devotees and made a complete mockery of their sentiments.
On the one hand, the BJP wants to control registered trusts through "draconian" FCRA rules, and on the other hand completely unregistered entities like the RSS are free to "loot and plunder" the temples of our country, he said.
"The Sangh Parivar's farce of being true Hindus is even further exposed because the FIR registered currently does not even name the trustees who were entrusted with temple funds. Instead, the UP Police SIT has only identified low-level office bearers without implicati…
RSS-VHP ‘captured’ Ram Temple administration in Ayodhya: Ashok Gehlot
RSS-VHP ‘captured’ Ram Temple administration in Ayodhya: Ashok Gehlot
Congress sharpens its attack on BJP and Sangh Parivar over the alleged theft of donations at the Ram temple
Ram Temple Trust will meet on July 7 to decide future action: VHP chief
Ram Temple Trust will meet on July 7 to decide future action: VHP chief
ANI
Lucknow:
VHP chief Alok Kumar
said on Saturday that the Ram Temple Trust will meet in Ayodhya on July 7 to decide on the next course of action following the resignation of the two senior Trust functionaries.
He said he hopes that a chief executive officer is appointed to manage the affairs of the Ram Temple.
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra have resigned following allegations of malfeasance in donations at the temple.
"It's true that they (Rai and Mishra) sent in their resignation to both the president and the treasurer of the trust, taking moral responsibility for the Ram Temple Donation Row. The Trust will address the issue at its July 7 meeting," Kumar told PTI on the phone.
Their decision should be respected since they took a "moral stand," he said.
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The resignations came on the heels of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) unravelling blatant malpractice and mismanagement in donation collection in its preliminary report to the Uttar Pradesh government.
Based on its findings, the police filed an FIR and arrested eight people.
Thoug…
'Same people fired bullets on karsevaks': Yogi slams oppn as Ram Mandir SIT probe widens
'Same people fired bullets on karsevaks': Yogi slams oppn as Ram Mandir SIT probe widens
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath accused opposition parties of hypocrisy regarding Ram Mandir donations, highlighting their past opposition to the temple's construction. He assured devotees of a thorough SIT probe into alleged misappropriation, urging against inflammatory statements and encouraging evidence submission.
Ram temple needs a Tirupati model, daily cash counting, says Nripendra ...
Ram temple needs a Tirupati model, daily cash counting, says Nripendra ...
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India
Nripendra Misra, chairperson of the Ram Mandir construction committee, said that the well-being of pilgrims should be the primary business of the temple trust | Mohammad Hammad | ThePrint
New Delhi:
A Tirupati Temple model to manage the Ram Mandir, an independent Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with experience working in Uttar Pradesh, and formalising the shrine’s top-level staff pattern are some of the suggestions made by the temple construction committee chairperson Nripendra Misra amid the donation fund controversy.
He termed the allegations regarding the donation fund irregularities as “painful”.
“It’s very painful because if—let us say—even a pie of devotees’ contributions has gone to individuals, then it’s loss of faith and face, and the devotees will feel cheated. So, as a citizen, everybody is hurt. The temple requires (a certain level of integrity) that whatever comes, every pie should be transparently put on notice. Let people see it. Let everyday’s contribution be counted the next day and let people see. I’m sure these things now will come up and improvement will ha…
misappropriation of funds: Latest News & Videos, Photos about ...
misappropriation of funds: Latest News & Videos, Photos about ...
A petition has reached the Supreme Court alleging issues with donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir. The plea seeks an FIR and an independent investigation into alleged fund misappropriation. The Supreme Court is urged to ensure transparency and accountability in managing temple offerings. Safeguards for devotees' contributions are also requested.
The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a special investigation team to probe alleged irregularities in Ram temple donation funds. This move comes after a request from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust itself. Construction of the Ram Mandir complex is ongoing, with a boundary wall and watchtowers being built.
Assam's Social Audit Unit is struggling with significant operational and governance issues. A CAG report reveals its registration expired for nearly five years. Manpower shortages and a lack of a firm manpower policy impact audit targets. The unit also lacks a Code of Ethics. Follow-up on audit reports is weak, with low recovery rates for misappropriated funds.
The Kerala High Court has ordered a fresh probe into alleged fund misappropriation by …
Donation 'theft' at Ram temple has tarnished India's image: Akhilesh Yadav
Donation 'theft' at Ram temple has tarnished India's image: Akhilesh Yadav
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav claimed that the country was suffering a loss of reputation because of the alleged actions of the ‘BJP's irreligious elements’
'Has it become a crime to have darshan of Lord Ram?': Cong alleges Ajay Rai put under house arrest
'Has it become a crime to have darshan of Lord Ram?': Cong alleges Ajay Rai put under house arrest
Congress alleged its Uttar Pradesh chief Ajay Rai was placed under house arrest to prevent a party delegation from visiting Ayodhya's Ram Temple. The party claims this is a 'cowardly action' by the BJP government amid controversy over temple fund embezzlement. Congress leaders were reportedly detained, with the party deeming such actions unconstitutional and demanding their immediate release to proceed with their visit.
UTTAR PRADESH provided aid DEPUTY in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
Ram Mandir donation controversy: The Trust at the centre of ... - OpIndia
Ram Mandir donation controversy: The Trust at the centre of ... - OpIndia
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Ram Mandir donation controversy: The Trust at the centre of the storm, how it...
News Reports
Updated:
17 June, 2026
Ram Mandir donation controversy: The Trust at the centre of the storm, how it was formed and who really runs it
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is an autonomous body that manages its own finances, donations and administration. The Uttar Pradesh government’s role is largely confined to security and administrative coordination and does not extend to controlling temple accounts or handling donations. If criminal misconduct occurred, the guilty must be identified and punished. If allegations have been exaggerated, that too should become clear through evidence.
17 June, 2026
Jinit Jain
Ram Mandir, Ayodhya (Image Source: Aaj Tak)
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The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya is not merely a temple. For millions of Hindus across the world, it is the culmination of a centuries-long civilisational struggle, legal battle, and social movement that finally culminated in the consecration of Ram Lalla in January 2024.
Since the Pran Pratishtha …
Ram temple donation ‘theft’: RJD MP moves Supreme Court seeking audit of temple trust finances
Ram temple donation ‘theft’: RJD MP moves Supreme Court seeking audit of temple trust finances
Plea in court says it is of ‘exceptional public importance’ to safeguard the administration of the Trust and protect the offerings made by millions of devotees; seeks CBI probe into allegations of embezzlement of donations to the Ram Temple
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
Arvind Kejriwal Questions Legality Of Ayodhya SIT And ... - Oneindia
Arvind Kejriwal Questions Legality Of Ayodhya SIT And ... - Oneindia
Is The Ram Mandir SIT A Sham? Kejriwal Demands CBI Probe Over Theft Claims
India
-Oneindia Staff
By
Oneindia Staff
Updated: Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 20:29 [IST]
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Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal has questioned the Uttar Pradesh government’s Special Investigation Team formed to probe the alleged theft of offerings at Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, saying the panel has no legal force without a First Information Report. He alleged that the SIT was created to deflect scrutiny rather than identify those responsible.
AI Summary
AI-generated summary, reviewed by editors
Arvind Kejriwal questions the Uttar Pradesh government's SIT probe into alleged theft at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir, stating it lacks legal authority without an FIR. AAP demands an FIR and investigations by the CBI and ED into alleged temple land scams and theft of offerings.
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Kejriwal said the government must clarify the legal provision under which the SIT was constituted. His attack has turned the alleged theft of temple offerings into a wider political issue, with AAP demanding registration o…
‘Vote chori, seat chori, chanda chori’: Congress attacks BJP over Ayodhya donation row
‘Vote chori, seat chori, chanda chori’: Congress attacks BJP over Ayodhya donation row
The Congress has accused the BJP-RSS of a "scam" involving alleged embezzlement of Ram Temple donations, demanding a Supreme Court-monitored probe. Party leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the Prime Minister and Home Minister's silence, linking the issue to past funding practices. An FIR has been registered, with eight arrests made and cash recovered as the investigation continues into the alleged siphoning of "thousands of crores."
Ayodhya police record Champat Rai’s statement in Ram temple donation embezzlement probe
Ayodhya police record Champat Rai’s statement in Ram temple donation embezzlement probe
According to the sources, the police sought details and documents relating to the alleged donation theft from Mr. Rai
Ram temple donation row: UP govt forms 3-member SIT
Ram temple donation row: UP govt forms 3-member SIT
Agencies
Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government on Saturday constituted a three-member
Special Investigation Team
(SIT) to probe allegations regarding donations and financial management of the Ram temple trust in Ayodhya, officials said.
According to officials, the SIT was constituted on the direction of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath following a request from the
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust
.
The SIT comprises Vijay Vishwas Pant, IAS, Divisional Commissioner, Lucknow; Kiran S, IPS, Inspector General of Police; and Neel Ratan, Special Secretary, Finance Department.
The controversy surfaced earlier this month when Samajwadi Party president
Akhilesh Yadav
claimed that reports had emerged suggesting crores of rupees from donations made to the Ram temple were missing and urged the court to take suo motu cognisance of the matter.
He termed the issue "extremely sensitive" for devotees and questioned the silence of both the temple trust and the government.
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Responding to the allegations, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai had said that internal audits were underway and no evide…
India probes graft charges at temple built on Babri mosque
India probes graft charges at temple built on Babri mosque
<p>NEW DELHI: Indian police are investigating allegations of embezzlement at a temple in the country’s north that has been a focal point of Prime Minster Narendra Modi’s Hindu-first politics, a top state official said on Friday.</p>
<p>The Ram Mandir temple in Uttar Pradesh state, built on grounds where a mosque stood for centuries before being torn down by Hindu zealots, was <a href="https://www.dawn.com/news/1807756">inaugurated </a>in 2024 with great fanfare by Modi himself.</p>
<p>Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that a Special Investigations Team (SIT) had been set up to look into alleged syphoning of cash offerings made by devotees.</p>
<p>“We have set up an SIT inquiry on the recommendation of the trust that administers the temple,” said Adityanath, a firebrand Hindu monk, at a public function.</p>
<p>“If anyone has any documentary proof, please provide it to the SIT,” he added.</p>
<p>The scale of the alleged embezzlement is unclear but opposition parties and local media reports say it could amount to more than $20 million.</p>
<p>The construction of the temple cost an estimated $240 million, all o…
Ram Temple Trust Leaders Champat Rai, Anil Mishra Step Down During ...
Ram Temple Trust Leaders Champat Rai, Anil Mishra Step Down During ...
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and member trustee Anil Mishra resigned on Friday on moral grounds amid the ongoing probe into alleged donation theft. They submitted their resignations to the Trust's president, Mahant Nritya Gopal Das.
The development comes after eight people were arrested following an FIR in connection with the matter. A First Information Report was registered in the alleged embezzlement of donations received at theRam templein Ayodhya under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 306, 316(5), 317(4), 317(5), 61 and 3(5), on the directions of the Uttar Pradesh Government.
Those named in the FIR, including Avinash Shukla, Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Manish Kumar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey, Ramashankar Mishra, Subhash Srivastava and Ramshankar Yadav alias Tinnu, were arrested. Their names were associated with the process of counting cash and valuables received as donations at the temple. They were picked up for questioning late Thursday night following which they were arrested.
ALSO READ:'Will There Be A Bulldozer Or Encounter Some…
India’s ruling party risks being sucked into Uttar Pradesh temple donation probe row
India’s ruling party risks being sucked into Uttar Pradesh temple donation probe row
An investigation into alleged financial irregularities at a Hindu temple closely associated with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is threatening to tarnish one of his party’s signature projects.
Two office bearers at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya have resigned, while police arrested eight officials of the trust managing the site after allegations of embezzlement surfaced earlier this month, a person familiar with the matter said, who asked not to be identified because the investigation was...
India's landmark Ram temple overhauls board after alleged theft of donations
India's landmark Ram temple overhauls board after alleged theft of donations
Questions have been raised over alleged theft of cash, valuable jewellery, gold and silver offered by devotees.
Ram Mandir Donation Row: Trust Member Backs SIT Probe, Says Capital ...
Ram Mandir Donation Row: Trust Member Backs SIT Probe, Says Capital ...
It is right to imprison anyone found guilty in this matter; even capital punishment is warranted. Stealing from Ram Mandir is a heinous crime," Mahant Dinendra Das Maharaj said
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust member Mahant Dinendra Das Maharaj backed the government's handling of the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case and called for strict punishment for those found guilty.
The SIT is investigating the alleged misappropriation of temple donations, with eight arrests made after an FIR was registered on June 25.
The Uttar Pradesh government has extended the SIT probe by 15 days, while investigators are also examining the accused's financial records and alleged disproportionate assets.
A member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has backed the Uttar Pradesh government's handling of the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, calling the action taken so far "appropriate" and demanding strict punishment for those found guilty.
The remarks come as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) continues its probe into the allegedmisappropriationof donations at the Ram Temple in Ay…
SIT probe into Ram temple fund row will bring truth to light: Adityanath
SIT probe into Ram temple fund row will bring truth to light: Adityanath
Adityanath encouraged anyone with evidence related to the case to present it to the SIT, and warned that anyone found guilty, regardless of their position, would not be spared
Donation racket alleged at Madhya Pradesh temple, probe ordered
Donation racket alleged at Madhya Pradesh temple, probe ordered
Managed by a government committee, it’s alleged that a parallel, ‘unauthorised committee’ was operating in the temple premises, accepting cash and valuable ornaments, and issuing fake receipts; Congress slams the BJP
Ram Mandir donation theft case: Trust President Nritya Gopal Das calls ...
Ram Mandir donation theft case: Trust President Nritya Gopal Das calls ...
President of Ram Temple trust Nritya Gopal Das on Monday called for the strictest punishment for those responsible for the alleged theft of devotees' offerings at Ram Mandir.
He added that the matter was one of deep faith for millions of Hindus and appealed to people not to politicise the issue or use it for personal gain.
“I am deeply saddened by the alleged theft of devotees' offerings at the temple of Shri Ramlalla Sarkar. Whoever has committed this sinful act should be awarded the strictest punishment,” Das said.
Quick answers to key questions
The Ram Mandir Trust is facing allegations of embezzlement related to devotees' donations, with claims of theft from the temple's donation boxes.
Political parties are involved due to the potential exploitation of the issue as a means of gaining political mileage, with opposition parties demanding an investigation into the irregularities.
The Ram Mandir Trust, led by President Nritya Gopal Das, is condemning the theft and calling for strict punishment for those responsible, while also urging people not to politicize the issue.
The Uttar Pradesh government h…
Ram temple donation row: Congress demands SC-monitored probe ...
Ram temple donation row: Congress demands SC-monitored probe ...
PTI
Ram temple donation row
New Delhi, Amid the row over alleged embezzlement of donations received at the
Ram temple
in Ayodhya, the
Congress
on Friday demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe and the dissolution of the
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust
.
Hitting out at the BJP-RSS, the opposition party said the "self-proclaimed protectors of Hinduism" have been completely exposed with the revelations of the theft of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
Also read:
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust chief Champat Rai resigns on moral grounds amid donation row
Congress general secretary K C Venugopal said that after using Ayodhya for their divisive politics, the BJP-RSS "looted" from donations of ordinary devotees and made a complete mockery of their sentiments.
On the one hand, the BJP wants to control registered trusts through "draconian" FCRA rules, and on the other hand completely unregistered entities like the RSS are free to "loot and plunder" the temples of our country, he said.
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"The Sangh Parivar's farce of being true Hindus is even further exposed because the FIR registered currently does not e…
Ram Temple donation theft row: Homes of 8 accused raided ahead of custody hearing
Ram Temple donation theft row: Homes of 8 accused raided ahead of custody hearing
Ayodhya Police intensified their probe into alleged Ram Temple donation embezzlement with simultaneous raids at the homes of eight arrested individuals. Investigators have recovered over Rs 79 lakh. The controversy also saw resignations from key Trust officials, Champat Rai and Anil Mishra. The Trust assures devotees that all offerings are secure and a fair investigation is underway.
Oppn Questions PM's Silence on Ram Mandir Theft Case, Asks For Probe ...
Oppn Questions PM's Silence on Ram Mandir Theft Case, Asks For Probe ...
As the probe into the Ram Temple donation funds theft case advances following the arrest of 8 suspects, resignations of trustees Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, the Opposition has questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence on the entire matter and called for action against the higher officials in the line.
Opposition leaders have alleged that
massive corruption couldn’t have taken place without the involvement
of officials sitting at higher positions.
Congress demanded that the Supreme Court should take a suo motu cognizance of the case and said that officials at the higher ranks should be held accountable. It questioned the Prime Minister’s silence on the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple and demanded the immediate arrest of those behind the "scam".
The Congress further sharpened its attack on the government over the alleged irregularities, saying that the funds theft is not merely a “financial scandal” but a “betrayal of faith” as every Indian had donated in the construction of the temple.
Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) also launched a fierce attack on the Ram Temple theft cas…
Ayodhya temple donation case: All eight FIR-named accused arrested ...
Ayodhya temple donation case: All eight FIR-named accused arrested ...
LUCKNOW:A day after theregistration of an FIR against eight personsin connection with the alleged embezzlement of Ayodhya Ram temple donation funds and valuables, all eight were arrested and sent into judicial custody on Friday.
Meanwhile, day-long confusion prevailed over the reportedresignations of Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra General Secretary Champat Raiand trustee Dr Anil Mishra amid the controversy.
However, neither the Temple Trust nor the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) confirmed the resignations of the two trust office-bearers. They also did not deny the reports, claiming ignorance about the development.
According to reports, both Champat Rai and Anil Mishra submitted their resignations on moral grounds to ensure a fair and impartial probe into the ongoing controversy.
According to VHP national spokesperson Vinod Bansal, the organisation had no information about Rai's resignation from the post.
Even VHP Ayodhya spokesperson Sharad Sharma denied having any information about the move. However, repeated attempts to contact Rai and Mishra for their response proved futile as both remained incommuni…
Ram temple donation case: Congress questions RSS, asks why agencies are silent on ‘big thieves’
Ram temple donation case: Congress questions RSS, asks why agencies are silent on ‘big thieves’
Uttar Pradesh Congress Legislature Party leader Aradhana Misra dismisses as ‘crocodile tears’ the statement issued by RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale
BKTC to probe allegations of misuse of funds for political leaders ...
BKTC to probe allegations of misuse of funds for political leaders ...
Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) on Wednesday constituted a committee to investigate allegations that its funds were misused for accommodations, meals, and helicopter rides for political leaders and their associates.
The inquiry committee includes finance officer Hem Kandpal, executive engineer Vipin Tiwari,law officer SS Barkhal, and chief administrative officer Ranjan Naithani.
“News is circulating on social media regarding the payment of various accommodation and food bills for distinguished guests through the temple committee. The concerned dignitaries have also denied this... A departmental committee is being formed to investigate the matter impartially and verify it,” the BKTC order said.
The committee has been asked to submit its report in 20 days.
BKTC chairman Hemant Dwivedi said, “We have constituted the committee for fair and impartial investigation into the matter and strict action will be taken against the culprits.”
Dwivedi earlier told HT, “The previous BKTC CEO had committed these irregularities, and after these activities came to light thorough an investigation, he was removed f…
Ayodhya Ram Temple 'missing fund' row | Saffron leader ... - Dailyhunt
Ayodhya Ram Temple 'missing fund' row | Saffron leader ... - Dailyhunt
L
ucknow: Days after the alleged 'embezzlement' of the offerings at the Ram Temple, two police complaints were lodged at the
Ram Janmabhoomi police station in Ayodhya
seeking registration of a case against some Ram Temple Trust office bearers.
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The first complaint was filed by president of 'Dharm Sena' Santosh Dube, who had also been associated with the Ram Temple movement.
Dube said that he would approach the court if the police failed to register an FIR on his complaint.
Another police complaint was lodged by Youth Congress vice-president Sharad Shukla, who sought removal of the Trust office bearers stating that an impartial investigation was not possible as long as these people remained at the helm of affairs.
UP Congress president Ajai Rai termed the alleged 'embezzlement' a 'collective loot' and said that the people having RSS 'background' were appointed at key posts in the Trust. He also demanded that the probe be conducted by a sitting judge.
Ram Mandir donation row: Piyush Goyal rejects Akhilesh Yadav's claims amid probe demand
Meanwhile the three-member SIT, formed to investigate the alleg…
Commission-for-jobs angle emerges in Ram Temple donation scam probe ...
Commission-for-jobs angle emerges in Ram Temple donation scam probe ...
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SIT is examining the allegations that Anil Mishra received commissions from candidates
The Week News Desk
Updated- July 01, 2026 12:08 PM IST
2 minuteRead
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Anil Mishra's name surfaced multiple times during the interrogation of one of the accused
At least 125 employees at the temple were allegedly appointed on Mishra’s recommendations
Those recruited through Mishra's recommendations also included his relatives
Investigators probing the alleged embezzlement of donations to the Ayodhya Ram Temple are now examining the recruitment of employees at the shrine after allegations that a former trustee took commissions for facilitating appointments.
Anil Mishra, who resigned from the Ram Mandir Trust following allegations of irregularities in donation funds, is reportedly under police radar after his name surfaced multiple times during the interrogation of one of the accused.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) is examining the allegations that at least 125 employees at the temple were appointed on Mishra’s recommendations, and that he received …
Ram Temple Donation Row: Congress Seeks Probe Monitored By Sitting HC ...
Ram Temple Donation Row: Congress Seeks Probe Monitored By Sitting HC ...
New Delhi: The Congress on Tuesday flagged the “bungling” in Ayodhya Ram Temple donations and large-scale financial irregularities in matters related to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust and demanded a time-bound probe under the supervision of a sitting High Court judge.
Addressing a press conference at the AICC headquarters here, Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee president Ajay Rai and the UP Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Aradhana Mishra claimed that funds donated by devotees and assets linked to the Ram temple project had been mismanaged, and called for a thorough audit of the trust’s functioning.
Rai said that an SIT constituted to examine the matter was inadequate and not time-bound, and questioned the appointment of controversial officials in the investigation team.
He demanded that the inquiry be completed within 7 to 10 days and monitored by a sitting High Court judge.
He alleged that irregularities had occurred at multiple stages, including donation collection, land transactions and management of offerings made by devotees, claiming that the issue involved a “systematic” and “organised” mi…
"Engaged in both politics and looting": Sanjay Raut targets BJP over ...
"Engaged in both politics and looting": Sanjay Raut targets BJP over ...
Speaking to ANI, Raut defended Rai's right to raise questions on the issue, stating, "Ajay Rai is the Congress President of Uttar Pradesh and a party worker; he questions the government regarding the issues that arise in people's minds...Crores of rupees were looted from the donation box. Where did it go? Who took it? The Bharatiya Janata Party has engaged in both politics and looting in the name of Ram. Whoever raises their voice gets arrested."
The remarks come amid a political storm in Uttar Pradesh over allegations of embezzlement of donations at the Ram Mandir. A First Information Report (FIR) was registered on June 25 in connection with the alleged embezzlement of donations received at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged Ram Mandir donation case has been granted a 15-day extension to complete its investigation. The extension has been given to enable the SIT to widen the scope of its probe and conduct a comprehensive inquiry into all aspects of the case. The investigation will be expanded further to ensure that every angle is thoroughly examine…
'No one is being shielded in Ayodhya donation case': VHP president Alok Kumar
'No one is being shielded in Ayodhya donation case': VHP president Alok Kumar
A controversy surrounding alleged embezzlement of donations for the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has deeply affected Hindu sentiment and the trust's credibility. While the VHP asserts its role concluded with the Supreme Court verdict, calls for a thorough investigation, trial, and conviction are strong to restore faith. The VHP denies responsibility for individual actions, emphasizing that justice must prevail without sparing anyone.
Action will be taken in Ram temple donation theft case: U.P. BJP chief
Action will be taken in Ram temple donation theft case: U.P. BJP chief
Pankaj Chaudhary says both State and Central Governments are ensuring that the matter is investigated thoroughly
'Asked to stay away for a few days': Gopal Rao denies being removed from Ram Temple trust
'Asked to stay away for a few days': Gopal Rao denies being removed from Ram Temple trust
Gopal Rao stated he was asked to temporarily stay away from trust meetings. Champat Rai and Anil Mishra resigned from the trust taking moral responsibility. Most allegations against Rao are false, except for donation theft claims. Donations are safe and verifiable, with police handling theft arrests. An SIT continues its investigation into alleged donation misappropriation.
Ram Temple Trust's 'Secret' Papers: MHA Said Disclosure 'Could Endanger ...
Ram Temple Trust's 'Secret' Papers: MHA Said Disclosure 'Could Endanger ...
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is an "autonomous body and not subject to financial, administrative or other interference from either the Centre or the Uttar Pradesh government", the MHA told the Central Information Commission (CIC) in response to a plea seeking information regarding the formation of the trust.
The Ministry of Home Affairs told the CIC that the information was "confidential" and could not be made public due to the "sensitivity" of the matter. The ministry argued that the records were "confidential and sensitive in nature" and that their disclosure could endanger the lives or physical safety of the persons concerned, invoking Section 8(1)(g) of the RTI Act.
The Home Ministry's response came in response to a plea filed by RTI applicant Neeraj Sharma, who sought certified copies of the scheme approved by the Centre through an order dated February 5, 2020. He had also sought government records concerning the formation of the Trust.
The CIC, however, backed the Home Ministry's stand in a 2024 order. Accepting the ministry's arguments, then Chief Information Commissioner Heeralal Samar…
Ram Mandir donation theft: VHP distances itself from Champat Rai as ...
Ram Mandir donation theft: VHP distances itself from Champat Rai as ...
Days after the theft andembezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Mandirtriggered outrage and raised questions over accountability, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has distanced itself from the "actions" taken by one of its top leaders, Champat Rai, in his capacity as the head of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The VHP also called for a comprehensive investigation into the theft of donations.
Speaking to India Today TV’s Rajdeep Sardesai, VHP International President Alok Kumar said the organisation does not accept responsibility for any of the recent decisions taken by the Ram temple trust and clarified that the VHP’s role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement ended once the objective of ensuring a temple comes up at the site was met.
"Our role is over. It is not the job of the VHP in any part of the country to construct temples or to run them. The trust would run them and what happens in the trust would be the responsibility of the trust," he said, adding that attempts to extend accountability to the RSS or the government would be inappropriate.
"I am distancing myself with the actions of Shri …
Congress calls for action against BJP and RSS in Ayodhya embezzlement
Congress calls for action against BJP and RSS in Ayodhya embezzlement
Nation and Beyond
Congress leaders demand action against BJP and RSS in Ayodhya donation embezzlement
TNM (With ANI Inputs)
|
Published On:
Jul 4, 2026
ANI Photo | Congress leaders demand action against BJP and RSS in Ayodhya donation embezzlement
Congress leaders have criticised the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) over alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, calling for the dissolution of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and action against the ruling party.
Congress leader Nana Patole accused the BJP and RSS of being directly responsible for the incident. Speaking to ANI, he said, “RSS is also responsible – from Mohan Bhagwat to Narendra Modi and the entire BJP are involved. It is clear. Looting donation money and playing with sentiments is the intent of the BJP-RSS. So, action should be taken against all of them. They should apologise to the public, Sanatana Dharma. But they won’t apologise. SIT is their system to hide everything. They will make someone a scapegoat. But the main people will remain out of it. So, action should be taken against RSS and BJP, which play …
Ram Temple donation row: Champat Rai breaks silence, questions role of ...
Ram Temple donation row: Champat Rai breaks silence, questions role of ...
Days afterresigning as the General Secretaryof the Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust, Champat Rai has broken his silence for the first time, responding to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged cash-counting irregularities at the Ram Temple Trust. In his written response, the former general secretary distanced himself from a key document governing the counting process and levelled serious allegations against Trust TreasurerAnil Mishraand the bank involved in the exercise.
In his statement, Rai said he disagreed with the 'joint guidelines for the counting process' dated February 6, 2025, claiming the document did not bear his signature despite allegedly carrying the signatures of Dr Anil Mishra and the then State Bank of India Ayodhya branch chief manager, Govind Mishra.
Rai said he became aware of the document only on June 13, 2026, after obtaining all counting-related records from the Trust's accounts office. He maintained that every agreement executed between August 2020 and June 2026 carried his signature, but this particular document did not. "Had I not been present in Ayodhya, t…
'Sentiments hurt': Ayodhya lawyers refuse to defend Ram temple donation case accused
'Sentiments hurt': Ayodhya lawyers refuse to defend Ram temple donation case accused
Eight individuals accused in the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation case face a significant hurdle as local lawyers have unanimously agreed not to represent them. The Faizabad Bar Association is set to formalize this decision, citing hurt sentiments over the alleged theft of temple offerings. Meanwhile, police conducted raids on the accused's residences, with investigators having recovered nearly Rs 80 lakh.
Ram Temple Donation Dispute Sparks Calls for Leadership Resignations
Ram Temple Donation Dispute Sparks Calls for Leadership Resignations
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Ram Temple Trust general secretary, member step down - The Hindu
28 Jun 2026
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https://newspaperhunt.com/stories/p/5036/ram-temple-donation-dispute-sparks-calls-for-leadership-resignations
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A fresh controversy surrounding donations linked to the Ram Temple has triggered political debate and public discussion in Uttar Pradesh. The issue centers on demands for the resignation of senior temple trust members, including Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, following allegations and questions related to donation management. Critics have called for greater transparency and accountability in handling funds associated with the temple project. Supporters of the trust, however, maintain that the organization has acted within established procedures and has contributed significantly to the temple’s development. The dispute has attracted attention from political leaders, religious groups, and devotees across the country. As discussions continue, the controversy has highlighted the importance of clear financial oversight in large religious and charitable i…
Ayodhya Ram Mandir theft: No accused is a trustee, all 8 ou…
Ayodhya Ram Mandir theft: No accused is a trustee, all 8 ou…
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
The controversy surrounding the alleged multi-crore donation embezzlement at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya has intensified following an investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Uttar Pradesh government. A formal First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against eight individuals on charges including criminal breach of trust, theft, cheating, and criminal conspiracy.
None of the principal accused are official trustees of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Instead, they were part of a 50-member outsourced counting and administrative team tasked with handling, weighing, and recording the vast daily cash, gold, and silver offerings brought from the temple's 35-plus donation boxes to a secure basement counting room.
A whistleblower (the former chief accounts officer of the trust, Mahipal Singh) alleged that these individuals ran a systematic scheme where voucher entries were recorded lower than the actual cash counted, allowing them to siphon off…
Big fish being shielded in Ram Temple donation case, claim Congress & AAP
Big fish being shielded in Ram Temple donation case, claim Congress & AAP
Congress has urged Prime Minister Modi to order a Supreme Court-monitored probe into alleged irregularities surrounding Ram Temple donations, terming it a "chanda chori mega scandal." Citing the UP government's SIT probe as an "eyewash," the party claims top officials are complicit. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal echoed these sentiments, alleging powerful individuals involved in land deals and temple construction are being shielded while minor figures are arrested.
Treasurer being shielded in Ram temple donation 'theft': Swami Avimukteshwaranand
Treasurer being shielded in Ram temple donation 'theft': Swami Avimukteshwaranand
Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati questioned the composition of the temple trust, alleging that those who had fought the legal battle for the Ram temple were sidelined.
Devotees' Donation Money Used To Pay Food, Accommodation Bills Of VIP ...
Devotees' Donation Money Used To Pay Food, Accommodation Bills Of VIP ...
Updated 28 May 2026 at 01:37 IST
A four-member committee has been set up in Uttarakhand to look into allegations that the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee paid the accommodation and food bills of VIP guests who visited the Kedarnath shrine.
Nidhi Sinha
India News
2 min read
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Devotees' Donation Money Used To Pay Food, Accommodation Bills Of VIP Guests In Kedarnath? Probe Ordered | Image:
chardham Website
Dehradun
: A four-member committee has been formed to investigate allegations that the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee paid the accommodation and food bills of VIP guests visiting Kedarnath Dham. The inquiry was ordered after claims circulated on social media that expenses linked to the stay and catering of prominent devotees were cleared through the temple committee’s funds.
The investigation was ordered by BKTC Chief Executive Officer Sohan Singh Rangad on the directions of committee chairperson Hemant Dwivedi. The panel has been asked to examine the matter and submit its report within three weeks. The temple committee said it took note of the reports being shared online and dec…
'Those looting Hindus are in power': Uddhav targets BJP over Ram Mandir donation row
'Those looting Hindus are in power': Uddhav targets BJP over Ram Mandir donation row
Uddhav Thackeray has strongly criticized the Centre regarding alleged donation embezzlement at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, asserting that "those looting Hindus are in power." He demanded an impartial investigation, warning that Hindus would not tolerate corruption in the name of religion. The controversy has led to arrests and prompted resignations, with wider scrutiny now on temple donation management.
RSS calls for impartial probe in Ram Temple donation theft case, urges ...
RSS calls for impartial probe in Ram Temple donation theft case, urges ...
Calling for an impartial probe into the alleged embezzlements of donations at Ram Temple in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) said on Friday that strict action is required in the case to ensure that such incidents do not happen again in the future, adding that devotees are 'pained' by the incident.
In a video statement, RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale also called for Hindus to exercise restraint, saying anti-Hindu factions should not be allowed to misuse this opportunity to spread misinformation about Hinduism.
Further, he expressed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government will conduct a neutral probe in the matter.
"The allegations of theft at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has pained the devotees of Lord Ram and the society," Hosabale said. "The UP government has initiated a probe by constituting an SIT. It is important to ensure that strict action is taken against the guilty."
"The RSS believes that strict action is needed and steps should be accordingly to ensure that the faith of devotees co…
Oppn keeps up pressure on BJP over Ram Mandir donation row; CM Yogi ...
Oppn keeps up pressure on BJP over Ram Mandir donation row; CM Yogi ...
Oppn keeps up pressure on BJP over Ram Mandir donation row; CM Yogi assures strict action
By
ANI
| Updated:
July 1, 2026 22:15 IST
2026-07-02T03:43:28+5:30
2026-07-01T22:15:02+5:30
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Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], July 1 : The Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir donations embezzlement case has triggered a major political ...
Oppn keeps up pressure on BJP over Ram Mandir donation row; CM Yogi assures strict action
Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], July 1 : The Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir donations embezzlement case has triggered a major political storm, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath promising strict action against the "culprits", while Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal launched sharp attacks on the ruling BJP.
As the Special Investigation Team (SIT) continues its probe with police intensifying searches and arrests, leaders across the political spectrum have shared their opinions on the issue. The allegations of missing funds have become one of the biggest political flashpoints surrounding the Ram Mandir since its…
Ram Temple donation row deepens as cash recovered from employee's house ...
Ram Temple donation row deepens as cash recovered from employee's house ...
LUCKNOW: The alleged misappropriation of nearly Rs 7 crore fromdonation fundsat the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has snowballed into a major controversy, with police recovering between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 12 lakh from the residence of a temple employee in the Rudauli area of Ayodhya on Friday.
Meanwhile, Ram Temple Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Mishra, who arrived in Ayodhya for the second time in five days, distanced himself from the issue, saying that he was responsible only for overseeing the construction work.
According to sources, the raid to recover the money was conducted by Ayodhya Police at the residence of Lavkush Mishra in Meenapur Thakuran Phagauli village, in the presence of Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai. Local sources claimed that Mishra had worked as a car mechanic before securing a job in the temple administration, after which his financial condition reportedly improved sharply within a short period.
The sources also claimed that Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, on Saturday, urged UP CM Yogi Adityanath to order an SIT (Special Inve…
Ayodhya Temple donation theft will have long-term consequences for the Sangh Parivar
Ayodhya Temple donation theft will have long-term consequences for the Sangh Parivar
The sordidness of the embezzlement issue has led to questions about the integrity of those who spearheaded the movement to build the Ram Temple in place of the Babri Masjid, with the loss of a moral high ground for the BJP and the Sangh Parivar
SIT starts probe into Ram Mandir donations issue, reaches Ram temple complex
SIT starts probe into Ram Mandir donations issue, reaches Ram temple complex
The State government constituted the three-member SIT at the request of the Shree Ram Teerth Kshetra Trust
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Donation Theft Probe | Champat Rai Action Certain
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Donation Theft Probe | Champat Rai Action Certain
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Ayodhya Ram Mandir Donation Theft Probe | Champat Rai Action Certain
SIT back in Lucknow with Ram Mandir probe report:
Action likely against Champat Rai, trustee Anil may also be removed
Ayodhya
12 days ago
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The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the alleged Ram Mandir donation theft returned to Lucknow on Saturday evening after completing six days of inquiry in Ayodhya. The probe has identified around 150 suspects, with action likely against nearly 25 people.
Sources said those questioned by the SIT have been instructed not to leave the city until further orders.
On the sixth day of the investigation, the SIT examined records related to the use of donation funds, expenditure by the temple trust and land purchase transactions. The team also reviewed records dating back to 2021 and questioned bank officials.
According to sources, the SIT has prepared a preliminary report, which is expected to be submitted to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday.
Action likely against Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra
Sources said action against Ram Mandir Trust General Se…
Special investigation team finds blatant SOP violations - The Tribune
Special investigation team finds blatant SOP violations - The Tribune
The alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya has snowballed into a major controversy, with an SIT probe finding lapses in the shrine's donation management system and eight people associated with the counting of cash and valuables being arrested.
Here is a look at what the investigation has found so far: While the details of how the donations were siphoned and exactly how much are still under investigation, the special investigation team (SIT) has pointed to some major lapses in its preliminary report.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) like deploying a security guard during a counting process, frisking of personnel while entering and leaving the counting room, and preserving CCTV footage of the donation-counting process for 180 days were violated, sources said, citing the findings of the report.
In violation of rules, Ramashankar Yadav alias Tinnu Yadav, the former driver of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai, held keys to several 'hundis' (donation boxes), they said.
"Many 'hundis' were there. So cash received in those hundis whose keys were w…
Ram Temple Donation Row: The Allegations, The Denials And What The ...
Ram Temple Donation Row: The Allegations, The Denials And What The ...
Donations worth crores of rupees. A temple that millions regard as the most sacred. And there is a political storm over an alleged scam. The administration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is facing one of its most serious tests since the January 2024 consecration.
Opposition leaders
allege that
cash, gold and jewellery
donated by devotees have gone missing or been misused.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, the Uttar Pradesh government and the BJP have pushed back firmly, saying there is no evidence of wrongdoing and that the investigation now under way - one the Trust says it requested itself - will settle the facts.
With the Allahabad High Court set to hear a PIL seeking a CBI probe and a CAG audit, and a
state SIT already examining the matter
, here is what is being alleged, what is being said in response, and what happens next.
Why This Controversy Carries Weight
The Ram Temple was built after a decades-long movement that culminated in the Supreme Court's 2019 verdict. For millions of Hindus, donations to the temple are not ordinary financial contributions; they are offerings made out of faith and …
UP govt forms 3-member SIT to investigate Ram Temple donation case
UP govt forms 3-member SIT to investigate Ram Temple donation case
Uttar Pradesh government has formed a three-member SIT to investigate alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The move follows a request from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which seeks to counter misinformation. The SIT will submit a preliminary report within seven days.
Ram temple donation row: SC refuses urgent hearing on plea seeking fair ...
Ram temple donation row: SC refuses urgent hearing on plea seeking fair ...
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PTI
Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday refused urgent hearing on a plea seeking a fair and time-bound probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Sheel Nagu said the matter will be listed for hearing after the summer break.
"Heavens are not going to fall... What is the urgency," the bench observed orally.
Also Read:
Donation box to bank: Inside Ram temple cash trail
The petition, filed by advocates Ajay Kumar Rai and Dinesh Kumar Yadav, said a CBI-led multi-disciplinary special investigation team (SIT) should investigate the alleged financial irregularities and other purported illegalities concerning the affairs and administration of the
Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust
.
Live…
silent on donation allegations yogi continues to politicise ram temple ...
silent on donation allegations yogi continues to politicise ram temple ...
Non-profit. Reader-funded. Independent.
New Delhi:Even as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Adityanath maintains a studied silence over thealleged misappropriation of Ram temple donations, he continues to aggressively leverage the temple’s political capital ahead of the 2027 assembly election.
The stinging controversy in Ayodhya has not deterred him from mobilising the Hindu electorate by framing the temple as a crowning achievement of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s “double-engine” governments in Lucknow and Delhi. In government and public events over the past few weeks – and even after the controversy broke out on June 7 – Adityanath has continued to advertise the Ram Mandir as a symbol of development and Hindu unity.
The latest occasion came on June 15 at the Digital Democracy Dialogue (D3) ‘D3 Triveni,’ an event conceptualised by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh-backed Ramabai Mhalgi Prabodhini. When asked by an audience member about his 10-year master plan for Ayodhya now that the temple is built, Adityanath explained in detail how the government had promoted the city as a hub of “spiritual tourism.” However…
Over 30 kg of gold-like items with Ram temple Trust, all donated ...
Over 30 kg of gold-like items with Ram temple Trust, all donated ...
Amid the row over allegedembezzlement of donationsat the Ram temple in Ayodhya, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri on Tuesday said the trust currently holds over 30 kg of gold-like items and 1,518 kg of silver-like items among other valuables donated by devotees.
All 2,926 valuable articles donated to the temple were "safe" and their records maintained, Giri toldPTI.
He gave the details of the donations after the Trust on Monday displayed several of the offerings to the temple, like a gold 'Ramcharitmanas' and a diamond-studded necklace before the media here.
A silver 'charan paduka' and silver 'Kakbhushundi' artefact, which some social media posts had claimed were among the missing items or unaccounted for, were also displayed before media personnel here.
The Trust said the valuables included gold, silver and diamond-studded ornaments, artefacts, crowns, necklaces, 'charan paduka', silver bricks and other offerings presented by devotees since the consecration of the Ram temple.
He claimed each donated article had been entered in its inventory with details of the donor,…
Ram temple donation theft row: VHP demands FIR, quick probe, daily ...
Ram temple donation theft row: VHP demands FIR, quick probe, daily ...
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Ram temple donation theft row: VHP demands FIR, quick probe, daily hearings...
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Ram temple donation theft row: VHP demands FIR, quick probe, daily hearings by fast-track court
The Ram temple donation theft controversy has emerged as one of the most significant challenges faced by the UP government since the temple’s inauguration in 2024.
Neelam Pandey
24 June, 2026 08:22 pm IST
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New Delhi:
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has demanded that an FIR be lodged in connection with the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation theft controversy, a day after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted its preliminary report to the Uttar Pradesh government.
VHP national president Alok Kumar in a statement called for the investigation to be expedited. Moreover, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) affiliate has demanded that a fast-track court hear the matter on a day-to-day basis and strict action be taken against those found guilty.
The controversy surfaced on 7 June, triggered w…
Ram temple 'fraud': SIT finds blatant SOP violations - DT Next
Ram temple 'fraud': SIT finds blatant SOP violations - DT Next
LUCKNOW:The alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya has snowballed into a major controversy, with an SIT probe finding lapses in the shrine's donation management system and eight people associated with the counting of cash and valuables being arrested. Here is a look at what the investigation has found so far: While the details of how the donations were siphoned and exactly how much are still under investigation, the special investigation team (SIT) has pointed to some major lapses in its preliminary report.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) like deploying a security guard during a counting process, frisking of personnel while entering and leaving the counting room, and preserving CCTV footage of the donation-counting process for 180 days were violated, sources said, citing the findings of the report.
In violation of rules, Ramashankar Yadav alias Tinnu Yadav, the former driver of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai, held keys to several 'hundis' (donation boxes), they said.
"Many 'hundis' were there. So cash received in those hundis whose keys were w…
Ram Temple probe given to SIT, not central agencies due to BJP 'rift ...
Ram Temple probe given to SIT, not central agencies due to BJP 'rift ...
Ram Temple probe given to SIT, not central agencies due to BJP 'rift', claims Akhilesh Yadav
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Lucknow:
Samajwadi Party (SP) chief
Akhilesh Yadav
on Monday launched a veiled attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the investigation into the alleged Ram Temple donation theft case was entrusted to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) instead of central agencies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) due to an “internal power struggle” within the party.
Addressing a press conference here, Akhilesh Yadav, without naming the BJP, suggested that it had two centres of power — one in Lucknow and the other in Delhi — and alleged that the handling of the investigation was influenced by this internal rivalry.
“Offerings, donations, and contributions have fallen into the hands of a gang of thieves. They are unable to face the public’s anger. As you mentioned, they are afraid of public outrage, which is why they are staying indoors,” he said.
“You mentioned the ED, CBI, and Income Tax. You did not understand what I said. I said this …
India: Congress' Ajay Rai claims 'arrest' amid Ram temple embezzlement row
India: Congress' Ajay Rai claims 'arrest' amid Ram temple embezzlement row
Uttar Pradesh Congress leader Ajay Rai claimed he was being detained in Ayodhya as he tried to visit the Ram temple amid an ongoing embezzlement controversy.
₹7 Cr Embezzled, Who's The Whistleblower, Key Resignations: All You ...
₹7 Cr Embezzled, Who's The Whistleblower, Key Resignations: All You ...
Updated 26 June 2026 at 16:21 IST
The controversy revolves around claims of large-scale embezzlement of donations made to the Ram temple Trust. What began as allegations by an opposition leader quickly gained momentum with the Trust’s own request for an SIT probe, indicating internal concern over the integrity of the donations.
Ankita Paul
India News
5 min read
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₹7 Cr Embezzled, Who's The Whistleblower, Key Resignations: All You Need To Know About Ram Temple Donation Row | Image:
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Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh:
In a significant development, General Secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust Champat Rai and member trustee Anil Mishra have resigned, taking moral responsibility for the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The resignations came hours after an FIR was registered in the case, marking a major escalation in the row that has sparked political debate over public faith and temple offerings.
What is the Ram Temple Donation Row?
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust manages the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, which was inaugurated in January 20…
Ram Temple theft case exposed BJP's rift, clear division between Centre ...
Ram Temple theft case exposed BJP's rift, clear division between Centre ...
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Monday once again launched a blistering attack at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over allegations of embezzlements of donation at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and claimed that the incident has exposed the difference between central and the Uttar Pradesh governments.
Speaking at a press conference in Lucknow,Akhileshsaid the saffron party is concerned more about its internal rivalries apart from solving the controversy, which is linked to the religious faith of the people.
He said the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government ordered an investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) before the central government could address the issue, which only shows their differences.
"The double-engine government (in UP and the Centre) is not functioning collaboratively; instead, it is in conflict. There is a power struggle, and they have no regard for faith or devotion," Akhilesh said, while saying the faith and devotion of people are being 'toyed with'.
"If it were a matter for the Enforcement Directorate, CBI, or Income Tax, the investigation would have been h…
Ram Mandir donations under scrutiny: RJD MP sends legal notice amid irregularity allegations
Ram Mandir donations under scrutiny: RJD MP sends legal notice amid irregularity allegations
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has received a legal notice from an RJD MP demanding detailed disclosures on Ram Mandir donations and their expenditure. This follows allegations of financial irregularities, which the Trust has denied. Opposition leaders have called for an investigation and questioned the handling of funds.
Police raid homes of eight held in Ayodhya Ram Temple donation case ...
Police raid homes of eight held in Ayodhya Ram Temple donation case ...
Police on Sunday morning conducted simultaneous raids at the residences of all eight people arrested amid allegations of irregularities in the collection of donations for theRam Temple,which have snowballed into a major controversy, triggering political slugfests, police action and calls for accountability.
Meanwhile, the Ram Temple trust on Saturday confirmed that its general secretary, Champat Rai, and member Anil Mishra have tendered their resignations.
The controversy first surfaced on June 7 when Samajwadi Party leader Tej Narayan ‘Pawan’ Pandey alleged that donations worth₹5 crore to₹7.5 crore were siphoned off from temple offerings.
Also Read |Role of ‘Mittals’ surfaces in Siya-Ketan matchmaking amid Pune murder case probe: ‘Never expected she could do this’
On June 13, the state government set up the SIT at the request of the temple trust. The panel conducted a preliminary inquiry inAyodhyabetween June 15 and 20 and flagged prima facie irregularities in the handling of cash and valuables offered by devotees.
An FIR was registered against the eight named accused and other unidentified persons under…
Inside Ayodhya Ram Temple donation scam: CCTV covered, cash hidden in ...
Inside Ayodhya Ram Temple donation scam: CCTV covered, cash hidden in ...
According to sources familiar with the investigation, the report describes a series of methods allegedly used by members of the cash-counting team to divert temple offerings while avoiding detection.
The developments come on the same day that Ram Temple Trust officialsChampat Raiand Anil Mishra resigned on moral grounds.
Meanwhile, eight arrested suspects remain under interrogation as investigators continue examining the alleged theft.
According to sources, temple authorities first suspected irregularities while reviewing the amounts deposited into bank accounts after cash was collected from the temple's donation boxes.
Officials reportedly noticed repeated shortages in bundles containing Rs 500 notes.
While each donation box typically yielded between Rs 6 lakh and Rs 7 lakh, discrepancies began appearing over several weeks, prompting a closer examination of the counting process.
As suspicion grew, hidden cameras were reportedly installed inside the cash-counting room.
According to sources, footage captured over a week allegedly showed one member of the counting team positioning himself in front of th…
Ram Temple donation fund row: Congress demands time-bound investigation ...
Ram Temple donation fund row: Congress demands time-bound investigation ...
IANS
Ram Temple donation row
New Delhi:
Congress
on Tuesday demanded a time-bound probe by a sitting judge of a high court into the alleged siphoning off devotees' offerings from the donation boxes at the
Ram temple
in Ayodhya. Commenting on the matter that was recently raised by Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav, the main opposition party claimed that the matter involved "an organised loot of ₹200 crore" and rejected the special investigation team (SIT) probe instituted by the
Yogi
Adityanath government, saying the officer chosen to head the SIT himself was under the scanner in connection with the
stampede
at the last Kumbh mela.
Raising the issue at the All India Congress Committee presser, UP Congress president Ajay Rai also targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that people close to him and RSS-BJP constitute the trust that runs the affairs of the Ram temple.
Also read |
External shocks expose India's slide into middle-income stagnation
"The nation's faith has been betrayed by BJP-RSS. Today, faith is being sold and traded in the name of religion. The information emerging regarding Shri Ram …
'Resignation received from Champat Rai': Ram Mandir Trust says 'shocked, hurt' by donation row
'Resignation received from Champat Rai': Ram Mandir Trust says 'shocked, hurt' by donation row
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has received resignations from General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra amidst allegations of donation embezzlement at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. The trust assures devotees their offerings are safe and accounted for, while confirming an FIR has been registered following an SIT probe. Legal proceedings are underway to address the controversy and restore public confidence.
MEA issues advisory for citizens undertaking Mansarovar Yatra ...
MEA issues advisory for citizens undertaking Mansarovar Yatra ...
Ayodhya Police conducted simultaneous raids at the residences of eight individuals arrested in connection with the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple. The raids followed their remand to judicial custody, with police...
There are strong possibilities of some Union ministers being sent to take organisational roles in the BJP and party office-bearers being inducted into the Modi ministry.
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has demanded the immediate disqualification of six party MPs who defected to the Eknath Shinde-led camp, alleging a larger political conspiracy. He accused the BJP of exploiting the Ram Mandir issue...
Police have taken Siya Goyal, an accused in the alleged murder of her fiance Ketan Agarwal, to Lohagad Fort for a crime scene reconstruction. Goyal and her alleged lover, Chetan Chaudhary, are accused of pushing Agarwal to his death from...
Ram Mandir donation case: SIT gets 15-day extension for comprehensive inquiry
Ram Mandir donation case: SIT gets 15-day extension for comprehensive inquiry
A special investigation team probing alleged embezzlement of Ram Temple donations in Ayodhya has been granted a 15-day extension. This follows the judicial custody of accused individuals and the resignations of key Trust office-bearers, Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, who took moral responsibility. The Uttar Pradesh police are conducting a high-intensity investigation into financial irregularities, with statements from Trust officials being recorded as the probe continues towards a fair conclusion.
Ram Temple donation probe: Akhilesh Yadav claims SIT choice reflects ...
Ram Temple donation probe: Akhilesh Yadav claims SIT choice reflects ...
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Synopsis
Akhilesh Yadav's sharpest claim isn't about the theft itself — it's about who controls the investigation. By alleging that the SIT was chosen over the CBI to keep the probe within the Lucknow faction's grip, the SP chief has turned a religious controversy into a window into BJP's internal fault lines.
Key Takeaways
Akhilesh Yadav alleged on 6 July that the Ram Temple donation theft case was assigned to an SIT instead of the CBI due to an internal BJP power struggle.
He claimed the BJP operates with two power centres — one in Lucknow and one in Delhi — and that the Lucknow faction moved first to control the probe.
Yadav accused those allegedly involved of crossing moral boundaries, invoking the concept of Maryada tied to Lord Ram .
Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak called the incident 'very unfortunate' but accused the SP and Congress of politicising a matter of faith.
Pathak alleged that the SP and Congress had historically opposed the Ram Temple and lacked standing to raise questions on the case.
Samajwadi Party (SP) chief
Akhilesh…
Explained: BNS sections invoked in Ram Temple donation embezzlement FIR ...
Explained: BNS sections invoked in Ram Temple donation embezzlement FIR ...
News Desk
Last Updated:
26 June 2026, 01:15 PM IST
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The Ram Temple donation FIR invokes theft, conspiracy and breach of trust charges. Here's what they mean.
Representative photo: PTI
Eight persons named in an FIR over the alleged embezzlement of donations received at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya have been arrested, senior Uttar Pradesh Police officials said on Friday.
The
arrests
come a day after an FIR was registered following a preliminary probe by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) into allegations of financial irregularities in the handling of devotees' offerings at the temple.
The case was registered at the Ram Janmabhoomi police station on the complaint of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust member Krishna Mohan.
According to the FIR, the accused allegedly misappropriated donations offered by devotees at the Ram Temple, including cash, gold, silver, jewellery, and other valuables collected through donation boxes and designated collection counters.
The FIR invokes multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 306, 316(5), 317(4), 61 and 3(5). Here's what these…
Champat Rai: The RSS pracharak at the centre of the Ram temple donation row
Champat Rai: The RSS pracharak at the centre of the Ram temple donation row
After decades as a low-profile organiser working behind the scenes, Mr. Rai has been thrust into an unwelcome spotlight amid corruption charges and rumours of his resignation from the Ram temple trust
'Ram temple's donated silver bricks, ornaments safe with proper ...
'Ram temple's donated silver bricks, ornaments safe with proper ...
ANI
Ram Janmabhoomi Trust confirmed receiving their resignations and vowed a fair inquiry into the matter.
Lucknow: The general secretary of
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust
, Champat Rai, and its member Anil Mishra have resigned from their posts, the Trust said on Saturday and assured that a fair inquiry will be conducted into allegations related to the Ram temple donations.
A statement issued by treasurer Govind Dev Giri said that the Trust has received the two resignations and will decide on them in its next meeting.
The trustees are "shocked" by the developments and are duty-bound to ensure that a fair inquiry is conducted and the faith of devotees is restored, Giri said.
On Thursday night, the police arrested eight people in connection with the alleged embezzlement of donations received at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
"We are shocked, hurt, and deeply saddened by the events we have heard about over the past few days at Shri Ram Temple (Ayodhya). Serving here as representatives of all Ram devotees and Ram sevaks, we want to assure the devotees of Lord Ram that we are committed to a fair investigation," …
Hindutva Ram Temple corruption scandal rocks BJP
Hindutva Ram Temple corruption scandal rocks BJP
No products in the basket.
According toThe Quint, despite Modi’s BJPright-wing governmentbeing mired inscandal after scandaland emerging unscathed, the latest crisis, the Ram Mandir donation theft, may be the biggest test for Hindutva yet.
According toAl Jazeera, for the past month, the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (UP), has been mired in allegations that its trustees have embezzled potentially millions of dollars in donations from devotees, diverting funds meant for the shrine into their own pockets.
EchoingThe Quint,Al Jazeerasays the scandal could unravel the BJP’s carefully constructed image as the guardian of the Hindu faith and cost the party dearly in the upcoming Uttar Pradesh elections, due in early 2027.
The temple,openedin 2024 by Modi, was built on the site of a mosque destroyed by Hindu nationalist mobs in 1992.
Yogi Adityanath, the UP chief minister and Hindutva hardliner and monk, hasordereda tough probe into the temple theft, triggering unease in the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leadership.
This has apparently put him at odds with the BJP central leadership and the RSS, with insiders viewin…
VHP asks SIT to verify claims made by Opposition leaders on donation ‘theft’ at Ram temple
VHP asks SIT to verify claims made by Opposition leaders on donation ‘theft’ at Ram temple
Vishva Hindu Parishad said that the statements of Opposition leaders will further help the investigative agencies to probe the allegations on Ram Temple donation theft, while also urging the SIT to take actions as per law against the leaders, if any allegations were made without any supporting basis.
Ram Temple Donation Theft: ₹20 Lakh Recovery Raises Questions Over ...
Ram Temple Donation Theft: ₹20 Lakh Recovery Raises Questions Over ...
Lucknow:
The recovery of Rs 20 lakh in cash, foreign currency and jewellery from the house of a primary school teacher arrested in the alleged Ram Temple donation theft case has raised fresh questions over the functioning of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and the handling of the investigation.
At the centre of the controversy is Avinash Shukla, an accused in the case who worked in the temple's donation counting section. Investigators are now trying to establish how a man with a modest income allegedly amassed such wealth in a matter of months.
The recovery has also put the spotlight on another troubling issue. According to witnesses and sources, irregularities in donation counting were detected on June 5 and Avinash was removed from duty the same day. However, an FIR was registered only on June 7, hours after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav raised the issue on social media.
The two-day delay has become one of the key questions before the Special Investigation Team (SIT).
Read Also
Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Theft Case: Lawyers Seek FIR Against Champat Rai & Other Trust Officials...
Teacher …
Ram Mandir donation row: Mahant seeks impartial probe; Piyush Goyal says Akhilesh's claims lack credibility
Ram Mandir donation row: Mahant seeks impartial probe; Piyush Goyal says Akhilesh's claims lack credibility
Amid the ongoing row over alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple, Mahant Das said that if any wrongdoing had taken place, it must be probed
'Will respond point-by-point': Champat Rai says will speak after final ...
'Will respond point-by-point': Champat Rai says will speak after final ...
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Champat Rai says will speak after final SIT report on Ram temple funds theft row
NEW DELHI: Former Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra belief common secretary Champat Rai on Tuesday stated he would respond to all allegations in opposition to him solely after the particular investigation staff (SIT) submits its final report on the alleged Ram temple donation theft allegations.
In a letter addressed to Ram devotees, Rai stated a number of discussions had been going down since June 7 over the alleged theft throughout the counting of donations from the temple’s donation bins, and that “many people have made baseless allegations” in opposition to him personally. He stated he had chosen to stay silent whereas the investigation was underway.
“Since June 7, 2025, several discussions have been taking place regarding the alleged theft during the counting of donations from the donation boxes at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple complex. Many people have made baseless allegations against me personally.. I have chosen to remain silent,” the letter learn.
Referring to the belief’s latest assembly, Rai stated the SIT’…
Ram temple 'embezzlement' row: SIT asks trust & temple functionaries not ...
Ram temple 'embezzlement' row: SIT asks trust & temple functionaries not ...
The Ram temple in Ayodhya.
PTI
Ayodhya: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of funds in theRam Temple in Ayodhyahas instructed the office-bearers of its trust and temple functionaries not to leave Ayodhya, according to temple sources.
The instruction by the three-member SIT was issued before they left for Lucknow on Sunday.
According to the temple sources, the daily investigation reports, including those related to the questioning of trust officials and other persons connected with the investigation, have been saved in digital form and the report will be given the final shape before being presented to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Adityanath.
At the same time, the SIT was sending reports of its findings to the Chief Minister's Office on a daily basis, they said.
The sources said that the SIT's probe did not remain limited to investigating the alleged embezzlement of funds, but has also covered the purchases of land in different phases by the temple trust and also the procurement of building materials for the temple.
The temple trust had allegedly purchased land abov…
UP govt forms SIT to probe allegations of 'missing donations' at Ram ...
UP govt forms SIT to probe allegations of 'missing donations' at Ram ...
UP govt forms SIT to probe allegations of 'missing donations' at Ram Mandir
By
IANS
| Updated:
June 13, 2026 21:10 IST
2026-06-13T21:07:05+5:30
2026-06-13T21:10:11+5:30
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Lucknow, June 13 Following the directions of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state government has constituted ...
UP govt forms SIT to probe allegations of 'missing donations' at Ram Mandir
Lucknow, June 13 Following the directions of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state government has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the alleged irregularities of monetary offerings made at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
According to sources, the SIT comprises Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, Inspector General of Police (IG) for the Lucknow Range Kiran S, and UP Finance Department Special Secretary Neel Ratan. The team has been reportedly directed to submit a preliminary report within seven days and a final report within 15 days.
A controversy erupted following Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav's allegation that crores of rupees have been found mis…
Temple built on site of demolished Babri mosque reshuffles leadership after donation theft scandal
Temple built on site of demolished Babri mosque reshuffles leadership after donation theft scandal
<p>A trust that runs India’s grand Ram temple, built on the site of the <a href="https://www.dawn.com/news/1097857">demolished Babri Masjid</a> and consecrated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2024 after decades of controversy, has overhauled its leadership after people involved in counting donations were accused of <a href="https://www.dawn.com/news/2011019">stealing millions of rupees in offerings</a>.</p>
<p>The construction of the temple dedicated fulfilled one of the biggest promises of Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which derives its support mainly from the Hindu majority.</p>
<p>The alleged theft at the temple has provided the opposition with ammunition ahead of an election due early next year in bellwether Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, where the temple is located in the city of <a href="https://www.dawn.com/news/1692240">Ayodhya</a>.</p>
<p>The temple site was bitterly contested for decades, sparking nationwide riots in 1992 that killed 2,000 people, mainly Muslims, after a Hindu mob destroyed the 16th-century mosque there.</p>
<h2><a id="shameful-incide…
Ram temple 'fraud': SIT finds blatant SOP violations
Ram temple 'fraud': SIT finds blatant SOP violations
A Special Investigation Team probe into the Ayodhya Ram temple donation system has revealed severe security lapses, including deleted CCTV footage and unauthorized key access. Eight individuals have been arrested and ₹80 lakh recovered following the initial investigation
Lucknow:The alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya has snowballed into a major controversy, with an SIT probe finding lapses in the shrine’s donation management system and eight people associated with the counting of cash and valuables being arrested. Here is a look at what the investigation has found so far:
While the details of how the donations were siphoned and exactly how much are still under investigation, the special investigation team (SIT) has pointed to some major lapses in its preliminary report.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) like deploying a security guard during a counting process, frisking of personnel while entering and leaving the counting room, and preserving CCTV footage of the donation-counting process for 180 days were violated, sources said, citing the findings of the report.
In violation of rules, Ramashan…
Ayodhya Ram Temple Scandal Exposes the Moral Bankruptcy of BJP's 'Ram ...
Ayodhya Ram Temple Scandal Exposes the Moral Bankruptcy of BJP's 'Ram ...
Few people other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) supremo Mohan Bhagwat, and Champat Rai can claim to be closely associated with the new Ram temple at Ayodhya.
Others like former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders LK Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Sadhvi Ritambhara, and Uma Bharti, and even Bajrang Dal’s Vinay Katiyar—pioneers of the majoritarian mobilisation in the 1980s and 1990s—were sidelined. Their decades of service to the cause of creating a Hindu votebank through theRam templemovement has been perfunctorily acknowledged but consigned to history’s ‘thanda basta’ or cold storage. The script for the new phase of the BJP has these once heavyweights consigned to political footnotes.
The controversy has placed them between a rock and a hard place. The responses tumbled in, going almost as per the script of the five stages of grief: first, denial that there was nothing noteworthy; then came the demurring by the likes of Nripendra Misra (who slipped in the more damaging one liner that this was not a theft but a dacoity); and finally anger, bargaining, and (a degree of) a…
Ram Temple donation row: Nripendra Misra hails UP govt's 'quick' SIT ...
Ram Temple donation row: Nripendra Misra hails UP govt's 'quick' SIT ...
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Ram Temple donation row: Nripendra Misra hails UP govt’s ‘quick’ SIT formation
By:
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Date:
June 14, 2026
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Ayodhya, June 14 : Ram Mandir Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Misra on Sunday praised the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government for its quick response in constituting a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the alleged irregularities of monetary offerings made at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
Notably, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust had requested a comprehensive investigation by an SIT.
Addressing reporters, Misra said: “The most important thing that should be appreciated is that the state government acted within less than 24 hours and constituted an SIT.”
“The SIT includes very senior officers. There is a Divisional Commissioner, senior poli…
"They will make someone a scapegoat, but main people will remain out ...
"They will make someone a scapegoat, but main people will remain out ...
"They will make someone a scapegoat, but main people will remain out": Congress leader Nana Patole
By
ANI
| Updated:
July 4, 2026 13:30 IST
2026-07-04T18:59:54+5:30
2026-07-04T13:30:03+5:30
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Nagpur (Maharashtra) [India], July 4 : Congress leaders on Saturday targeted the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) over ...
"They will make someone a scapegoat, but main people will remain out": Congress leader Nana Patole
Nagpur (Maharashtra) [India], July 4 : Congress leaders on Saturday targeted the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) over the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, demanding action against the ruling party and calling for the dissolution of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
Congress leader Nana Patole alleged that the BJP and RSS were directly responsible for the incident.
Speaking to ANI, Patole said, "RSS is also responsible - from Mohan Bhagwat to Narendra Modi and the entire BJP are involved. It is clear. Looting donation money and playing with sentiments is the intent of the BJP-RSS. So, action should be taken against a…
Ayodhya temple donations row: Uddhav announces ‘Ram Raksha’ protest in Maharashtra from July 5
Ayodhya temple donations row: Uddhav announces ‘Ram Raksha’ protest in Maharashtra from July 5
I appeal to all those agitated over this alleged large-scale theft at the Ram temple to join us and hold the BJP accountable for it, says Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray
SC Refuses Urgent Hearing On Plea Seeking Fair Probe Into Ram Temple ...
SC Refuses Urgent Hearing On Plea Seeking Fair Probe Into Ram Temple ...
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SC Refuses Urgent Hearing On Plea Seeking Fair Probe Into Ram Temple Donation Row
SC refused an urgent hearing on a plea seeking a fair probe in connection with the embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple.
A view of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple complex, in Ayodhya on Monday, March 23, 2026.
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IANS
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By
PTI
Published :
June 29, 2026 at 11:08 AM IST
|
Updated :
June 29, 2026 at 11:17 AM IST
2
Min Read
New Delhi:
The Supreme Court on Monday refused urgent hearing on a plea seeking a fair and time-bound probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Sheel Nagu said the matter will be listed for hearing after the summer break. “Heavens are not going to fall… What is the urgency?” the bench observed orally.
The petition, filed by advocates Ajay Kumar Rai and Dinesh Kumar Yadav, said a CBI-led multi-disciplinary special investigation team (SIT) should investigate the alleged financial irregularities and other purported illegalities concerning the affairs and administration of the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
The p…
Jyotirmath Shankaracharya says Ram temple FIR spares key accused, calls ...
Jyotirmath Shankaracharya says Ram temple FIR spares key accused, calls ...
Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, the Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath on Friday questioned the FIR registered in the allegedembezzlement of donations at the Ram templein Ayodhya, saying only lower-level employees had been named while those responsible for the alleged larger wrongdoing had been "spared".
Speaking to reporters in Sambhal during his ongoing 'Gau Dharma Yatra', he said, "What can one say about the theft of donations? From the very beginning, arbitrary decisions have been taken in the Ram temple. Neither the scriptures nor the Vedas nor the advice of religious leaders has been followed. The trust was constituted with people chosen by political leaders, while saints, seers and priests were kept away."
"Had everything been intended to be fair, the trust could have been entrusted to the four Shankaracharyas, Ramanandacharya and other religious leaders. Instead, trusted political associates were appointed, which showed the intention from the beginning," he added.
Referring to the FIR lodged in the alleged donation embezzlement case, he said, "We have heard that the FIR has been registered against…
UTTAR PRADESH coerced CHIEF MINISTER in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
'Ram ko loota, desh ko loota': Sibal attacks BJP over Ayodhya temple 'donation' case
'Ram ko loota, desh ko loota': Sibal attacks BJP over Ayodhya temple 'donation' case
Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal criticised the BJP government, alleging corruption and betrayal of faith regarding Ram Temple donations. He urged voters to oust the ruling party, citing broken promises and the "Achhe Din" slogan as false. This comes as an SIT investigates alleged embezzlement, leading to eight arrests. The Supreme Court will hear a related petition in July.
VHP Distances Itself From Ram Temple Donation Theft, Says Action On ...
VHP Distances Itself From Ram Temple Donation Theft, Says Action On ...
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has said it is not responsible for the alleged donation theft at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and will wait for the outcome of the ongoing investigation before deciding whether to take any action against its international vice president, Champat Rai.
Speaking to Hindustan Times, VHP international president Alok Kumar said the alleged theft had deeply hurt the sentiments of Hindus worldwide but stressed that the organisation had no role in the temple's administration.
Calling for a thorough investigation, Kumar said the police and the Special Investigation Team (SIT) should examine every angle of the case and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice.
Rejecting suggestions that the controversy had damaged the VHP's credibility, Kumar said the organisation's role ended after the Supreme Court's verdict that paved the way for the Ram Temple's construction.
"We are not accountable for it. The day the Supreme Court judgment came, I had clarified that the job of the VHP is over. Construction of the temple and the running of it is not our job," he said.
Kumar also di…
UTTAR PRADESH provided aid CHIEF MINISTER in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
Donated silver bricks, ornaments are safe: Ram Mandir trust amid row
Donated silver bricks, ornaments are safe: Ram Mandir trust amid row
The trustees are "shocked" by the developments and are duty-bound to ensure that a fair inquiry is conducted and the faith of devotees is restored.
The general secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Champat Rai, and its member Anil Mishra have resigned from their posts, the Trust said on Saturday and assured that a fair inquiry will be conducted into allegations related to the Ram temple donations.
A statement issued by treasurer Govind Dev Giri said that the Trust has received the two resignations and will decide on them in its next meeting.
The trustees are "shocked" by the developments and are duty-bound to ensure that a fair inquiry is conducted and the faith of devotees is restored, Giri said.
On Thursday night, the police arrested eight people in connection with the alleged embezzlement of donations received at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
"We are shocked, hurt, and deeply saddened by the events we have heard about over the past few days at Shri Ram Temple (Ayodhya). Serving here as representatives of all Ram devotees and Ram sevaks, we want to assure the devotees of Lord Ram that we are…
PM Modi owes an explanation to nation on Ayodhya Ram Temple donation embezzlement case: Pinarayi Vijayan
PM Modi owes an explanation to nation on Ayodhya Ram Temple donation embezzlement case: Pinarayi Vijayan
Those who exploited people’s faith for political gains now face allegations of organised financial fraud, says Kerala Leader of the Opposition in a Facebook post
Congress calls for time-bound judicial probe into Ram Mandir ‘missing donations’ row
Congress calls for time-bound judicial probe into Ram Mandir ‘missing donations’ row
U.P. Congress chief Ajay Rai says the probe by a Special Investigation Team into the matter is a farce, and, ‘The BJP-RSS have committed organised plunder at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi’
Don't politicise issue; probe thoroughly Ram Mandir donation theft ...
Don't politicise issue; probe thoroughly Ram Mandir donation theft ...
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Lucknow:
Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Tuesday called the alleged donation theft at Ram temple “an extremely serious” matter but cautioned against turning it into a political issue.
Citing daily media reports on the controversy, she said the developments were worrying, yet insisted that politicising the case “won ‘t be right.”
Mayawati demanded a thorough investigation and said those found involved must not be spared. She also pressed for stronger systems to manage offerings and donations at the Ram temple to prevent recurrence.
Pointing to practices at other major temples, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said established models of accounting and management could be adopted in Ayodhya as well.
Her remarks come as leaders from several opposition parties, including the Samajwadi Party, Aam Aadmi Party and Congress, stepped up attacks on the BJP govt in Uttar Pradesh, and some visited Ayodhya, actions the BSP leader indirectly criticised as seeking political mileage.
Mayawati ‘s emphasis on not mixing “politics into religion” was seen by political observers as…
₹5 lakh fine if Ram temple donation case accused represented: UP bar ...
₹5 lakh fine if Ram temple donation case accused represented: UP bar ...
The Faizabad Bar Association in Uttar Pradesh has decided not to represent those accused in the alleged embezzlement of funds linked to the Ram temple in Ayodhya. In a general body meeting on Monday, the Bar warned that any member who takes up the case for the accused will face a fine of₹5 lakh.
During the meeting, lawyers also demanded thatChampat Rai, Anil Mishra, and Gopal Rao—figures linked to the controversy—leave Ayodhya within three days, threatening to blockade the city if they did not comply. Champat Rai was the general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, and recently stepped down from the post alongside Mishra, another trustee.
This bar association's move echoes its 2005 decision when it refused to represent those accused in the Ram Mandir terrorist attack case. "The theft of temple offerings has deeply hurt our sentiments," said Bar Association secretary Shailendra Jaiswal. “All lawyers in Faizabad have agreed not to defend the arrested accused.”
A video of Kalika Prasad Mishra, the President of the Bar association, went viral following the decision. “No lawyer will represent the accuse…
Congress steps up attack over Ayodhya donation row, seeks public SIT report
Congress steps up attack over Ayodhya donation row, seeks public SIT report
The Congress on Thursday intensified its attack over allegations of financial irregularities linked to the Ayodhya-based Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, with senior leaders Ajay Rai and Digvijaya Singh demanding accountability and a transparent investigation into the handling of donations received for the Ram temple.
Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee chief Ajay Rai, who visited the Ram temple and offered prayers in Ayodhya, alleged corruption in matters connected to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi movement and demanded strict action against those found guilty.
Speaking to reporters, Rai reiterated his demand for an inquiry headed by a sitting high court judge and called on the Uttar Pradesh government's three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to make its findings public within a week.
"This is the birthplace of Lord Ram. BJP-RSS people are indulging in corruption here," Rai said. "There have been land scams and now offerings made by devotees are being stolen."
He alleged that crores of devotees across the country had contributed funds during the Ram temple movement and said the truth about the…
Ram Mandir Donation Theft | Champat Rai Blames Anil Mishra; Ayodhya ...
Ram Mandir Donation Theft | Champat Rai Blames Anil Mishra; Ayodhya ...
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Ram Mandir Donation Theft | Champat Rai Blames Anil Mishra; Ayodhya Controversy
VIDEO| 'Anil Mishra responsible for donation theft at Ram Mandir':
Champat Rai alleges against his once close aide
Uttar Pradesh
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The Ayodhya Ram Mandir offering theft case has led to the removal of Champat Rai and Anil Mishra from the temple trust. Breaking his silence on Tuesday, Champat Rai wrote a letter, while his response to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) also surfaced. In it, he blamed Anil Mishra for the alleged theft of offerings.
Champat Rai, a former chemistry lecturer, and Anil Mishra, a homeopathy doctor, were once considered close associates. However, the controversy surrounding the alleged theft has driven a wedge between them.
Watch the story of both in the VIDEO
.
Topics:
Ram Mandir Row
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UTTAR PRADESH coerced DEPUTY in Uttar Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, India
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
UTTAR PRADESH coerced DEPUTY in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
‘Capital punishment warranted’: Ram Mandir Trust member on Ayodhya donation row
‘Capital punishment warranted’: Ram Mandir Trust member on Ayodhya donation row
A Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust member has endorsed the administration's decisive action in the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, calling for severe penalties for the guilty. The ongoing SIT probe has led to arrests and resignations, with investigators scrutinizing financial irregularities and alleged siphoning of funds. Despite the probe, temple worship continues smoothly, and donation handling is reportedly now fully transparent.
"They will make someone a scapegoat, but main people will remain out ...
"They will make someone a scapegoat, but main people will remain out ...
Congress leader Nana Patole alleged that the BJP and RSS were directly responsible for the incident.
Speaking to ANI, Patole said, "RSS is also responsible - from Mohan Bhagwat to Narendra Modi and the entire BJP are involved. It is clear. Looting donation money and playing with sentiments is the intent of the BJP-RSS. So, action should be taken against all of them. They should apologise to the public, Sanatana Dharma. But they won't apologise. SIT is their system to hide everything. They will make someone a scapegoat. But the main people will remain out of it. So, action should be taken against RSS and BJP, which play with Sanatana sentiments..."
Meanwhile, in Mumbai, Congress leader Husain Dalwai also reacted to the alleged donation embezzlement case and called for a restructuring of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
"Instead of saying what happened is wrong blaming someone else is height of shamelessness. They have made false claims regarding participation in freedom struggle as well...The Trust (Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra) should indeed be dissolved. Good people should be inducted…
Gold-Plated Ramcharitmanas, Charan Paduka: Ram Temple Trust Displays ...
Gold-Plated Ramcharitmanas, Charan Paduka: Ram Temple Trust Displays ...
The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Monday displayed several items alleged to have been missing during the investigation into the alleged theft of donations from the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The articles included a copy of the
Ramcharitmanas
, a necklace,
charan-paduka
(ceremonial footwear), and several other items believed to be linked to the donation theft case.
The display comes amid an ongoing probe into the alleged misappropriation of temple donations, sparking concerns over the handling of donations and security arrangements at the Ayodhya temple.
The Trust's move was in reference to widely circulated claims that the gold-plated copy of the Ramcharitmanas, which is worth around Rs 5 crore, has been moved from the Ram Temple. The gold-plated Ramcharitmanas was donated to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in April 2024 by former Union Home Secretary S Lakshminarayanan and his family.
Champat Rai's Resignation Accepted
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Monday accepted Champat Rai's resignation amid the ongoing controversy over alleged embezzlement of temple donations. C…
K.C. Venugopal writes to PM Modi, seeks Supreme Court-monitored probe into the Ram Mandir donation row
K.C. Venugopal writes to PM Modi, seeks Supreme Court-monitored probe into the Ram Mandir donation row
K.C. Venugopal questioned the credibility of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government, saying it appeared to be little more than an “eyewash”
Ram Temple Donation Case: General Secretary Champat Rai, Temple Trust ...
Ram Temple Donation Case: General Secretary Champat Rai, Temple Trust ...
ETV Bharat
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Ram Temple Donation Case: Trust General Secretary Champat Rai, Member Anil Mishra Resign
Champat Rai, the General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, and Trust member Anil Mishra resigned from their position on Friday.
A view of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple complex, in Ayodhya on Monday, March 23, 2026.
(
IANS
)
By
ETV Bharat English Team
Published :
June 26, 2026 at 1:40 PM IST
|
Updated :
June 26, 2026 at 5:21 PM IST
3
Min Read
Ayodhya:
Facing backlash after the alleged misappropriation of funds at the Ram Temple, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai and trust member Anil Mishra stepped down from their positions on Friday. Both officials were under pressure to resign amidst the Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case.
As the temple trust is entrusted with the task of monitoring day-to-day operations and overseeing the management of chadhava (offerings) to Lord Ram, this comes as fixing accountability for the grave wrongdoings that went unchecked at the temple.
The resignations come on the back of mounting scrutiny and demand for the sacking of…
How Ram Temple donations were received, counted & deposited: Cops quiz Champat Rai
How Ram Temple donations were received, counted & deposited: Cops quiz Champat Rai
Ayodhya police have intensified their probe into alleged embezzlement of Ram Temple donations, recording statements from former Trust general secretary Champat Rai and other functionaries. Investigators are meticulously examining the entire donation management process, from receipt to deposit, to identify procedural lapses and establish accountability. This crucial step aims to reconstruct the movement of funds and uncover any conspiracy, with financial records and evidence being corroborated.
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
UTTAR PRADESH coerced DEPUTY in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
UTTAR PRADESH coerced CHIEF MINISTER in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India
CBI must probe Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case: Acharya Pramod Krishnam
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam on Saturday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying a high-level investigation was necessary to preserve the faith and trust of crores of devotees.
Speaking to ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the matter concerns the faith and reverence of millions of people and should be investigated thoroughly.
'This is a matter concerning the faith, reverence, and trust of crores of people. To uphold that trust and preserve the faith, a CBI inquiry should be conducted into the scam, irregularities, and misappropriation that have occurred within the Ram temple. The people of the country have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Not only the crores of people in India but also followers of Sanatan Dharma across the globe place their full trust in him, and they currently feel cheated,' Krishnam told ANI.
'We need to know who is involved, who is complicit, who appointed these individuals, and who witnessed the theft taking place. I believe this matter should be inv…
Watch: A theft at a temple: Implications of the Ayodhya embezzlement case
Watch: A theft at a temple: Implications of the Ayodhya embezzlement case
After years of anticipation, with India’s apex court getting involved, the Ayodhya Ram Mandir was consecrated in January 2024, under The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. But more than two years on, the same trust is embroiled in a controversy, that crores of donations to the temple by pilgrims, have been embezzled. We look at what happened and the repurcussions of that event.
'Looted Ram Temple like Mahmud Ghazni': Sena (UBT) targets BJP over Ayodhya donation row
'Looted Ram Temple like Mahmud Ghazni': Sena (UBT) targets BJP over Ayodhya donation row
Shiv Sena (UBT) has fiercely criticized the BJP regarding alleged donation irregularities at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, labeling it a "robbery" and a "complete breakdown of law and order." The party accused the BJP of "looting" the temple, drawing parallels to historical invasions. This attack also targeted Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of being complicit with "looters" within the BJP.
'We waited 500 years, now wait 15 days more': CM Yogi on Ram Temple fund probe
'We waited 500 years, now wait 15 days more': CM Yogi on Ram Temple fund probe
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations of financial irregularities in Ram Mandir offerings. He urged devotees and political parties to avoid baseless comments until the investigation concludes, assuring that truth will be separated from falsehood.
'SBI wanted donation staff removed 3 months back': Congress on Ram Temple fund row
'SBI wanted donation staff removed 3 months back': Congress on Ram Temple fund row
Calling the arrest of eight people in the case "only a glimpse", Congress leader Pawan Khera targeted those "protecting" the people behind the alleged fund embezzlement. Khera tweaked the RSS-BJP's popular Ram Mandir movement slogan in a piercing attack, saying, "Ayodhya ki loot jhanki hai, Kashi-Mathura abhi baaki hai (the alleged loot in Ayodhya was only a glimpse, Kashi and Mathura were yet to come)".
Explained: Why accused in Ayodhya Ram Temple donation case could face ...
Explained: Why accused in Ayodhya Ram Temple donation case could face ...
Theeight people named in the alleged Ram Temple donation embezzlement case in Ayodhyacould face life imprisonment if the charges are proved in court, with the FIR invoking several stringent provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including offences related to criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust and handling stolen property.
The FIR was registered by Ayodhya Police after the Special Investigation Team (SIT), constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government, submitted its interim report recommending criminal action. Eight named accused and several unidentified persons have been booked in connection with the alleged misappropriation of donations and offerings made by devotees at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.
The case has been registered under Sections 61, 306, 316 and 317 of the BNS.
Section 61 of the BNS deals with criminal conspiracy, which applies when two or more persons agree to commit an illegal act or achieve a legal objective through illegal means.
Where the conspiracy relates to an offence punishable with death, life imprisonment or imprisonment exceeding two years, conspirators ca…
'Lankakaand, Maha-Dacoity': Opposition Guns For BJP Govt on Ram Temple ...
'Lankakaand, Maha-Dacoity': Opposition Guns For BJP Govt on Ram Temple ...
The registration of an FIR and arrest of eight suspects in the Ram Temple alleged donation fund theft case has erupted into a full-blown political storm with the ruling BJP and opposition trading charges and counter-charges. Taking on the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh on the Ram Temple issue, the opposition is using terms like 'Lankakaand', 'Dharma-Yudh' or 'Maha-Dacoity' to build pressure, while alleging that the FIR and SIT as 'fake'. They alleged only 'small pawns' will be held while influential would be protected.
Mask of Donation Devotees Has Come Off, Says
Akhilesh Yadav
Training guns at the government, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief and former UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav said that BJP's 'Lankakaand' had begun from
Ayodhya
.
Akhilesh Yadav stated that the "mask of the
donation devotees
has finally come off," alleging that the "glittering empire of Lanka built on the arrogance of BJP loyalists" was facing divine retribution. In a post on X, Yadav said that the mask of the "Danbhakto" (donation devotees) has finally come off because the Lord's divine power has worked its miracle.
"The
BJP's Lanka epi…
Social Boycott of Ram Mandir Donation Accused — Is Kejriw
Social Boycott of Ram Mandir Donation Accused — Is Kejriw
AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal has called for a 'social boycott' of those accused of embezzling Ram Mandir donations in Ayodhya, welcoming the local Bar Association's decision to boycott their legal defence. The move, according to India Herald's assessment, is a calculated attempt to position AAP as a credible Hindu-politics voice in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the 2027 assembly elections, attacking BJP from inside its own ideological fortress.
Here is a question no one in the BJP war room expected to face in 2025: what do you do when Arvind Kejriwal — the man your cadre spent a decade branding as a closet Islamist — shows up in Ayodhya, holds a press conference within earshot of the Ram Mandir, and demands that anyone who stole donations meant for Lord Ram be socially boycotted?
You cannot call him anti-Hindu. Not today. Not on this specific ground. And that, stripped to its electoral bones, is the entire point.
The facts are straightforward enough. An FIR has been registered in Ayodhya over alleged embezzlement of donations collected in the name of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, according to Hindustan Times. Police hav…
Stealing from the gods: India’s Ram Temple hit by corruption scandal
Stealing from the gods: India’s Ram Temple hit by corruption scandal
The temple is mired in embezzlement allegations before crucial state elections, embarrassing PM Modi's government.
Corroboration
No verdict, no pronouncement. The model extracts atomic factual claims with verbatim quotes; every quote is validated against the source text and corroboration is computed by counting how many editorially-opposed blocs assert each fact. 2 fabricated/unverifiable quotes were rejected by the cite-or-die gate.
The spine · 1 fact corroborated across ≥2 opposed blocs
5×cross-perspective · 2There are allegations of embezzlement or theft of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
chinaindiapakistanqatarwestern
aljazeera“The temple is mired in embezzlement allegations before crucial state elections, embarrassing PM Modi's government.”
bbc“India's landmark Ram temple overhauls board after alleged theft of donations”
dawn“Indian police are investigating allegations of embezzlement at a temple in the country’s north that has been a focal point of Prime Minster Narendra Modi’s Hindu-first politics, a top state official said on Friday.”
scmp“investigation into alleged financial irregularities at a Hindu temple closely associated with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is threatening to tarnish one of his party’s signature projects.”
timesofindia“Ayodhya police have intensified their probe into alleged embezzlement of Ram Temple donations, recording statements from former Trust general secretary Champat Rai and other functionaries.”
hindu“the same trust is embroiled in a controversy, that crores of donations to the temple by pilgrims, have been embezzled.”
Single-source · 8 — reported by one bloc only (uncorroborated)
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was established to investigate alleged siphoning of cash donations at the Ram Temple.
dawn
Two office bearers at the Ram Temple resigned and police arrested eight trust officials after embezzlement allegations.
scmp
Champat Rai resigned as General Secretary of the Ram Temple trust after SIT arrests, and the SIT report alleges employees stole cash on nearly 70 occasions over 40 days.
indiatvnews.com
Ayodhya police recorded statements from former trust general secretary Champat Rai and other functionaries as part of the embezzlement probe.
timesofindia
Congress leader Ajay Rai claimed he was detained in Ayodhya while attempting to visit the Ram Temple amid the embezzlement controversy.
dw
Acharya Pramod Krishnam demanded a CBI investigation into the alleged Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case.
gdelt
The Ram Temple is administered by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
hindu
The alleged embezzlement concerns crores of donations made by pilgrims to the Ram Temple.
hindu
Framing · 1 — loaded language surfaced (spin shown, not adopted)
aljazeera
“embarrassing PM Modi's government”
→ The temple is mired in embezzlement allegations before crucial state elections, embarrassing PM Modi's government.
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