Ayodhya lawyers marched to the local police station on Thursday, demanding the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai over alleged theft of funds meant for the Ram temple construction. The lawyers, representing a group of concerned citizens, accused Rai of misappropriating donations and called for the dissolution of the trust.
Lawyers' Demand for FIR
Led by advocate Rajesh Mishra, a delegation of over 50 lawyers submitted a memorandum to the station house officer, detailing allegations that Rai had siphoned off crores of rupees from the temple fund. The memorandum stated that the trust, which oversees the temple construction, must be dissolved and its accounts audited. “We have proof of financial irregularities. The police must register an FIR and investigate thoroughly,” Mishra told reporters outside the police station.
The lawyers warned that if the police fail to act within 24 hours, they would approach the High Court and subsequently the Supreme Court to ensure legal action. “This is a matter of public faith. The money donated by millions of devotees cannot be allowed to be stolen,” said advocate Sunil Tiwari, another participant in the march.
Allegations Against Champat Rai
The allegations center on missing funds from the temple construction account, which reportedly received over ₹3,600 crore in donations since 2020. According to the lawyers, Rai, as the trust's general secretary, had sole access to certain accounts and failed to provide transparency in expenditures. They cited an internal audit report that flagged discrepancies of nearly ₹200 crore. “The trust has not published its audited financial statements for the last two years. This lack of accountability is unacceptable,” Mishra added.
Champat Rai has denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated. In a statement, he said, “All funds are properly accounted for. The trust follows all legal and financial norms. These accusations are baseless and aimed at defaming the temple project.” The trust has not yet responded to the demand for dissolution.
Background of the Ram Temple Project
The Ram temple in Ayodhya is being built on the site of the demolished Babri Masjid, following a landmark Supreme Court verdict in 2019 that awarded the land to Hindus. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was established to oversee construction and manage donations. The project has received widespread support from devotees globally, with the temple expected to be completed by 2027.
This is not the first controversy surrounding the trust. In 2024, a similar complaint was filed by a local activist regarding alleged misuse of funds, but no FIR was registered. The current protest by lawyers adds to growing scrutiny of the trust's financial management.
Next Steps
The police have assured the lawyers that the complaint will be examined. “We have received the memorandum and will look into the allegations. Appropriate action will be taken as per law,” said Superintendent of Police (Ayodhya) Anil Kumar. Meanwhile, the lawyers plan to hold a press conference on Friday to release more details of the alleged fraud. If the police do not act, they will file a petition in the Allahabad High Court next week.
The development comes at a time when the temple construction is in full swing, with the sanctum sanctorum already completed. The controversy could potentially impact public trust in the project, though temple officials remain confident of meeting deadlines.
