Ayodhya Ram temple theft case: SIT widens probe into trust’s administrative functioning

Ayodhya: The second Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to investigate the alleged theft of offerings at the Ram temple in Ayodhya is set to widen its probe to include the administrative functioning of the temple trust, sources told news agency PTI.

The SIT, headed by Lucknow Range Inspector General Kiran S, is likely to seek additional records and conduct a fresh assessment of evidence concerning the alleged diversion of devotees’ offerings. The team is expected to visit Ayodhya soon.

The panel also includes Ayodhya Range DIG Somen Barma and Ayodhya SSP Gaurav Grover. A forensic auditor and another specialist have been brought on board to assist with the investigation.

Sources told PTI that the SIT will examine the role of office-bearers of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust based on statements already recorded and evidence gathered during the probe.

The team is also reviewing the involvement of State Bank of India officials, outsourced workers and other personnel associated with the collection and counting of donations to determine whether they had any role in the alleged offence.

The new SIT has issued notices to more than 200 people for questioning, according to sources. Former trust general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra may also be called for questioning.

The FIR was registered following a preliminary report by the first SIT, led by Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant. Police had arrested eight people in connection with the alleged theft and recorded statements from trust officials.

Sources said the investigation has also been expanded to cover alleged financial irregularities in spending on religious ceremonies and festivals at the temple.

The developments come as the trust has strengthened monitoring of the donation-handling process. Trust member Mahant Dinendra Das said on Saturday that the investigation into alleged irregularities involving gold, silver and other offerings was nearing completion.

Since July 25, every stage of donation handling has been monitored through continuous video recording. Additional CCTV cameras and an eight-member surveillance team have also been deployed to improve transparency. Worship and darshan at the temple continue as usual, he said.