More than 20 employees responsible for counting cash offerings at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya have resigned, citing salary cuts and extended work hours as the primary reasons. According to sources, out of 36 employees assigned to the task, only 13 reported for duty on Thursday.
Mass resignation disrupts operations
The sudden exodus has raised concerns about the smooth functioning of the temple's donation management. The employees, who were hired specifically to handle the counting of cash offerings from devotees, submitted their resignations collectively after failed negotiations with the temple trust.
"The salary reduction and increased work hours made it impossible for us to continue," said a former employee on condition of anonymity. "We tried to discuss the issues with the management, but there was no resolution."
Salary and work hour disputes
The employees alleged that their salaries were reduced by nearly 20% while work hours were extended beyond the agreed-upon schedule. The trust, however, maintained that the changes were necessary due to increased operational costs and the need for round-the-clock counting during peak pilgrimage seasons.
"We are reviewing the situation and will take appropriate steps to ensure continuity," said a spokesperson for the Ram Mandir Trust. "The counting of offerings is a sensitive task, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and efficiency."
Impact on temple operations
With only 13 employees currently on duty, the trust is scrambling to fill the vacancies. Sources indicate that temporary staff may be hired to manage the workload until permanent replacements are found. The temple, which attracts millions of devotees annually, collects substantial cash offerings, making the counting process critical.
According to temple records, daily cash offerings average around ₹50 lakh, with spikes during festivals. The resignation has led to delays in the deposit of funds and reconciliation of accounts.
Employee grievances
The employees, who were hired on contract basis, claimed that their working conditions deteriorated over time. "Initially, we were given a fixed schedule and adequate compensation. But gradually, the trust increased our hours without proportionate pay," another employee said.
They also pointed out that the counting room lacked basic amenities such as proper ventilation and seating, adding to their discomfort during long shifts.
Trust's response
The Ram Mandir Trust acknowledged the resignations but downplayed their impact. "We have a robust system in place. The resignation of a few employees will not affect the temple's operations," the spokesperson said. "We are in the process of recruiting new staff and expect to resume normal operations within a week."
However, sources within the trust admitted that finding skilled and trustworthy staff for cash counting is challenging. "Background checks and training take time," a trust official said.
