The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing allegations of embezzlement of funds at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has instructed trust and temple functionaries not to leave the city as the investigation enters a crucial phase. The directive was issued before the three-member SIT departed for Lucknow on Sunday, according to the Press Trust of India.
SIT Formation and Composition
The Uttar Pradesh government constituted the SIT on June 13. The three-member panel comprises Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, Inspector General of Police Kiran S, and Finance Department Special Secretary Neel Ratan. Their mandate includes examining financial irregularities and ensuring accountability in the temple's operations.
Discrepancies in Donation Records
Sources associated with the investigation claimed that one of the SIT's key findings relates to the documentation and accounting of offerings made by devotees, including gold and silver jewellery, diamonds, and other precious stones. During questioning, several trust office-bearers were allegedly unable to provide satisfactory explanations for these discrepancies.
Maha Kumbh Period Under Scrutiny
The SIT is also examining transactions and donation records from the Maha Kumbh Mela period in January and February 2025, when the temple witnessed an unprecedented surge in footfall. Sources claimed that nearly 10 lakh devotees visited the temple daily during the two-month period, with donation boxes reportedly filling up with cash within hours. Investigators are scrutinizing whether all donations were properly recorded and deposited.
Land Purchases and Construction Materials
Investigators are also scrutinising land purchases made by the temple trust in different phases, along with the procurement of construction materials used for the temple project. The SIT is verifying the legitimacy of these transactions and whether they align with the trust's financial records.
The SIT's actions indicate a deepening probe into the financial management of the Ram Temple, with potential implications for trust officials and contractors involved. Further developments are expected as the investigation progresses.
