The Ram Mandir donation controversy escalated on June 26, 2026, as Champat Rai, the general secretary of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, and his close associate, trust member Anil Mishra, submitted their resignations. The final decision on the resignations now rests with the trust, according to reliable sources.
Background of the Donation Row
Rai and Mishra have been at the center of the Ram temple donation row after the Uttar Pradesh government-constituted Special Investigation Team (SIT) recommended filing First Information Reports (FIRs) in the matter. On the night of June 25, 2026, a case was booked against eight individuals. However, right-wing groups have questioned why Rai was not among those booked, given his role in steering temple affairs.
Pressure from RSS and BJP
With mounting pressure from within the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rai, a senior Sangh leader, sent his resignation to the trust. An official confirmation regarding the resignations is yet to be issued.
Impact on Temple Construction
The resignations come at a critical time for the Ram temple construction in Ayodhya, which has been a flagship project for the ruling BJP. The trust is expected to deliberate on the resignations and decide on the future course of action. The controversy has sparked debates over transparency in donation collection and management.
