Family of Accused Alleges Framing in Ram Mandir Donation Theft Case
Sadhana Mishra, sister-in-law of Ramashankar Mishra, one of the accused in the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, has demanded a fair and impartial investigation. She claimed that influential individuals are involved in the theft and that lower-level employees are being scapegoated.
Speaking to ANI, Sadhana Mishra stated that Ramashankar had been employed for six years counting donations at the temple, earning a monthly salary of approximately Rs 16,000 to Rs 17,000. She revealed that the family only learned about the police case about a month ago after hearing discussions among local residents.
Allegations of a Cover-Up
"A theft has taken place, but it seems that influential people are involved and the smaller employees are being framed," Sadhana alleged. She emphasized that only a proper probe could establish the truth and identify the real culprits. She demanded a speedy and impartial investigation, saying, "I want a proper and fair investigation so the real culprit is punished. I trust that an honest investigation will prove who is innocent and who is guilty."
She also noted that the family had no contact with Ramashankar for over two-and-a-half years, as he lived separately in rented accommodation in Ayodhya. "We haven't had any contact or dealings with him for over 2.5 years. He lived separately in a rented room here in Ayodhya. We never spoke," she added.
Mahant Expresses Concern Over Donation Embezzlement
Mahant Sitaram Das Ji Maharaj termed the alleged embezzlement a matter of grave concern, stating it had deeply wounded the sentiments of devotees. He alleged the involvement of "anti-Ram, anti-country, and anti-national elements" and criticized those who compared Sanatan Dharma to diseases like dengue, malaria, or AIDS. "An SIT is investigating the matter, the truth will be fully revealed, and not a single guilty person will be spared," he told ANI.
He expressed gratitude to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for extending the SIT's investigation timeframe by 15 days, enabling a thorough probe. "Bulldozers will roll, and the followers of Sanatan Dharma will receive justice," Mahant Sitaram Maharaj added.
Police Seize Vehicle and Intensify Probe
Police impounded a Maruti Brezza vehicle belonging to Avinash Shukla, another accused arrested in the case. The vehicle was recovered from Kaushalpuri Colony and is now at the Ram Janmabhoomi Police Station. Avinash Shukla was sent to Ayodhya District Jail on Friday night after his arrest.
The Uttar Pradesh Police have intensified the probe, questioning Avinash Shukla at the Special Operations Group (SOG) office in Ayodhya. Ayodhya Circle Officer (CO) Ashutosh Tiwari and other officials are present during the interrogation. Avinash Shukla, associated with counting Ram temple offerings, was presented in court on Thursday and sent on 24-hour police remand. Earlier on June 28, a team led by CO Ashutosh Kumar visited his residence to gather evidence.
SIT Investigation Extended
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been granted a 15-day extension to widen the scope of its probe and conduct a comprehensive inquiry. The extension aims to ensure every angle is examined and no guilty person is spared. The Ram Mandir donation embezzlement controversy began after an FIR was registered on June 25 over the alleged theft of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The Trust has maintained its commitment to a fair investigation and preserving the faith of devotees.
