Police Investigate Alleged Theft of Donations at Ayodhya Ram Temple; FIR Registered Against Eight
Ayodhya Donation Case Enters Criminal Investigation Phase
A major investigation has unfolded in Ram Mandir after the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust filed a complaint leading to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against eight individuals over the alleged misappropriation of devotees’ donations. The case marks one of the most significant criminal probes involving financial management at the temple since its inauguration and has intensified scrutiny over the handling of offerings made by millions of pilgrims.
FIR Registered Following SIT Recommendations
The FIR was registered after a preliminary report submitted by a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT), which had been constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government to examine allegations of irregularities in donation handling. According to reports, the complaint was filed by trustee Krishna Mohan, acting on the recommendations contained in the SIT’s initial findings.
The accused named in the FIR include:
- Avinash Shukla
- Anukalp Mishra
- Lavkush Mishra
- Manish Kumar Yadav
- Karunesh Pandey
- Ramashankar Mishra
- Subhash Chandra Srivastava
- Ram Shankar Yadav alias Tinnu
The FIR also mentions unidentified persons, indicating that investigators believe additional individuals may have been involved.
Serious Criminal Charges Invoked
Police have invoked multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including allegations relating to:
- Theft
- Criminal breach of trust
- Receiving or concealing stolen property
- Criminal conspiracy
- Common intention
Relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act have also reportedly been included as investigators examine whether public trust and official responsibilities were abused.
Police Action: Eight Accused Taken Into Custody
According to police sources, all eight accused were taken into custody shortly after the FIR was registered, and investigators began questioning them. Authorities have initiated legal formalities, including arrest memos, while continuing to examine documentary and electronic evidence.
How the Alleged Irregularities Came to Light
Questions regarding the handling of donations emerged earlier in June after allegations surfaced in the public domain. In response, the Temple Trust requested an independent government investigation to ensure transparency and determine whether any wrongdoing had occurred.
The Uttar Pradesh government subsequently constituted an SIT headed by senior administrative officials. Investigators reportedly reviewed:
- Donation collection procedures
- Cash counting records
- Storage and transportation of offerings
- Supervision mechanisms
- Financial documentation
- Statements of temple employees and officials
The preliminary inquiry reportedly identified suspected irregularities sufficient to recommend criminal proceedings.
Focus on Cash Handling System
Several of those named in the FIR were reportedly involved in counting cash and valuables donated by devotees. Investigators are examining whether weaknesses in internal controls allowed funds or valuables to be diverted before they entered official accounting systems.
Police are also tracing the alleged flow of funds and determining whether additional persons benefited from the alleged misconduct.
Trust Says Investigation Will Ensure Transparency
The Temple Trust has maintained that requesting an independent investigation demonstrates its commitment to transparency and accountability. Earlier statements indicated that the probe was intended to establish facts and address concerns raised regarding the management of devotees’ offerings.
Political Reactions
The case has also triggered political reactions.
Opposition leaders have demanded a thorough and impartial investigation, with some questioning whether the inquiry will extend to all responsible persons. The allegations have become a subject of political debate in Uttar Pradesh, particularly given the religious and symbolic importance of the Ram Temple.
Investigation Continues
The registration of the FIR marks the beginning—not the conclusion—of the criminal investigation. Police are expected to:
- Conduct detailed interrogations of the accused.
- Examine financial and audit records.
- Analyse CCTV footage and electronic evidence where available.
- Trace any allegedly misappropriated money or valuables.
- Identify whether additional suspects should be charged.
Authorities have indicated that further arrests or additional charges may follow if new evidence emerges during the investigation.
Why the Case Matters
The Ram Temple receives donations from millions of devotees across India and abroad. Allegations involving the handling of these contributions carry significant legal, administrative, and public interest implications. The ongoing investigation is expected to examine not only individual criminal liability but also whether existing systems governing donation collection and accounting require structural reforms.
As the investigation proceeds, officials have emphasized that the allegations remain subject to judicial scrutiny and that guilt or innocence will ultimately be determined through the legal process.
