Deadline Extended for SIT Investigation into Ram Mandir Donation Case
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday granted an extension until July 15 for the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to submit its report on the donation-related controversy in the Ayodhya pilgrimage area. The SIT had formally requested additional time to conduct a comprehensive examination of the various aspects of the case, according to officials.
The Chief Minister accepted the request and directed the SIT to complete its probe and file the report by the new deadline. The SIT was constituted at the behest of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which oversees the Ram Mandir construction and related activities.
Chief Minister Emphasizes Thorough and Impartial Probe
Yogi Adityanath had earlier made it clear that the SIT would conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into every aspect of the case to establish the complete truth. He also stated that no guilty person would be spared under any circumstances, signaling a firm stance against any wrongdoing in the donation process.
The investigation gained momentum after the SIT's chief member, Divisional Commissioner of Lucknow Vijay Vishwas Pant, submitted a preliminary report to the Home Department on June 23. The report contained several stringent recommendations that prompted immediate action.
First FIR Registered Based on Trust Member's Complaint
Acting on the SIT's recommendations, the first FIR in the case was registered on June 25 at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Police Station. The complaint was filed by Trust member Krishnamohan, who provided a written statement detailing alleged irregularities in the collection and management of donations.
The FIR named eight accused persons along with several unidentified individuals. All eight named accused have since been arrested, and a high-level probe is currently underway to uncover the full extent of the alleged misappropriation. Authorities have not disclosed the identities of the accused or the specific charges at this stage.
Background of the Donation Row
The donation row erupted after questions were raised about the handling of funds collected for the Ram Mandir construction in Ayodhya. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which manages the temple's finances, requested the state government to form an SIT to investigate the matter. The Trust has been transparent in its dealings and welcomes the probe to clear any doubts, according to sources.
The SIT's preliminary findings indicated possible financial irregularities, leading to the registration of the FIR and subsequent arrests. The extended deadline will allow the team to examine documents, summon witnesses, and build a watertight case.
The state government has assured full cooperation to the SIT and reiterated its commitment to ensuring that justice is served. The case is being closely watched, given the religious and political significance of the Ram Mandir project.
