The investigation into alleged financial irregularities linked to donations received at the Ram Temple has intensified ahead of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s visit to Ayodhya on Friday. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Thursday conducted extensive questioning of two senior officials associated with the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The proceedings were reportedly videographed as part of the ongoing probe.
The SIT team visited the Ram Temple complex and recorded statements from key functionaries. Investigators also carried out a detailed re-examination of income and expenditure records, audit reports, donation accounts, bank transactions, and expenditure details related to temple funds.
Sources indicated that the SIT has compiled a comprehensive investigation file documenting donation inflows, utilisation patterns, financial transactions, and details of individuals under scrutiny. Preliminary findings have reportedly pointed to certain serious irregularities, triggering speculation about possible administrative changes within the trust.
Discussions are also said to be underway regarding the appointment of an IAS officer as a special executive officer to oversee temple administration. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was constituted following directions from the Supreme Court after the Ayodhya verdict, and sources suggest that the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) is closely monitoring developments. Any decision on restructuring the trust is likely to depend on the SIT’s final report.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is scheduled to offer prayers at Hanumangarhi and the Ram Temple during his visit. According to sources, a senior trust functionary under scrutiny has been advised to stay away from the Chief Minister’s engagements and send a representative instead. Individuals linked to the ongoing investigation are also reportedly not being allowed to be present during the programme.
The Chief Minister may seek a detailed briefing from SIT officials during his visit.
Meanwhile, political reactions have intensified. In Lucknow, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh launched a sharp attack on the BJP and the Centre over the alleged irregularities. He claimed to have filed a complaint with Ayodhya police seeking registration of an FIR against trust officials and other accused individuals. Singh demanded immediate arrests, alleging that evidence, CCTV footage, statements, and recoveries have already emerged in the case. He also called for the dissolution of the trust if wrongdoing is established.
Responding to the allegations, BJP national general secretary and Rajya Sabha MP Radha Mohan Das Agrawal urged caution, stating that no conclusions should be drawn before the SIT completes its investigation. He asserted that strict action would be taken if any wrongdoing is proven and reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
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