Ayodhya: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged theft of offerings from the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has submitted a preliminary 20-page report to the Uttar Pradesh government, recommending the registration of an FIR, restructuring of the temple trust, and the appointment of a senior officer as the temple’s CEO.
The report was submitted to Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad after a six-day investigation that involved questioning around 150 individuals connected to the temple’s administration, financial operations, and donation management system. According to sources, the SIT has also recommended a comprehensive audit of donations received by the temple over the past five years and suggested measures to strengthen transparency and prevent future irregularities.
The investigation reportedly examined the role of several trust officials and reviewed financial records, bank statements, and donation-counting procedures. Sources indicated that the report has been forwarded by the state government to the PMO, which is expected to take a final call on whether any trust members should be retained or removed.
The probe relates to allegations of large-scale misappropriation of offerings made at the Ram Temple. Investigators have so far recovered approximately ₹2 crore based on information provided by five accused individuals identified as Luvkush, Avnish, Anukalp, Karune, and Ramshankar alias Tinnu. Gold was also recovered from the residence of Tinnu, who is reported to be a close associate of trust-linked figures.
Initial estimates cited during the investigation suggest that the total value of the alleged theft could exceed ₹200 crore, though officials have not yet confirmed the final figure.
During its inquiry, the SIT questioned key trust functionaries, including General Secretary Champat Rai, trust member Gopal Rao, and Dr. Anil Mishra. Bank officials, employees involved in counting donations, and representatives of a private agency handling currency counting were also examined.
The state government is expected to review the SIT’s recommendations before deciding on further legal and administrative action in the high-profile case.
