Trust Cites Ongoing SIT Investigation
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has declined to make public its financial records, attributing the decision to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe currently underway. The move follows a complaint submitted to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rajneesh Singh, which was subsequently forwarded to the Ayodhya district administration for necessary action.
Background of the Complaint
The issue came to light after Rajneesh Singh, a prominent BJP figure, lodged a complaint with the PMO alleging irregularities in the trust's financial management. The PMO forwarded the complaint to the Ayodhya district administration, prompting the trust to respond. In a statement, the trust asserted that it is cooperating fully with the SIT probe and that releasing financial details at this juncture could compromise the investigation. According to sources within the trust, the decision was made to ensure the integrity of the ongoing inquiry.
Trust's Stance on Transparency
While the trust has withheld specific financial data, it maintains that it has always operated with transparency and in accordance with legal norms. A trust spokesperson said, "We are committed to full cooperation with the SIT. The decision to withhold details is temporary and solely to avoid any interference with the investigation." The trust also emphasized that all expenditures related to the Ram Temple construction have been audited and are available for review by competent authorities.
Political Reactions and Implications
The development has sparked political debate, with opposition parties demanding greater accountability from the trust. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra questioned the delay in disclosure, stating, "The trust must come clean on its finances. The public has a right to know how funds are being utilized for a national project." Meanwhile, BJP leaders have defended the trust, pointing to the SIT probe as evidence of due process. The Ayodhya district administration has not yet commented on the timeline of the investigation.
Next Steps
The SIT probe is expected to conclude within the next few months, after which the trust may be required to make its financial details public. The trust has assured that once the investigation is complete, it will release a comprehensive financial report. For now, the focus remains on the construction of the Ram Temple, which is progressing as per schedule, with the sanctum sanctorum expected to be completed by early next year.
