Ram Temple Donation Theft Case: Ayodhya Court Extends Custody of 8 Accused
A special anti-corruption court in Ayodhya on Monday extended the judicial custody of eight individuals accused in the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple donation embezzlement case by 14 days, remanding them to jail until August 10.
A court in Ayodhya on Monday extended the judicial custody of eight people arrested in connection with the alleged theft of donation money from the Ram Temple complex. The accused were produced before the court after the expiry of their earlier remand, and the court directed that they remain in judicial custody as the investigation continues. The eight accused were arrested following an investigation into the alleged theft of cash donated by devotees at the Ram Temple. Investigators allege that the group was involved in siphoning off money from donation boxes installed within the temple premises.
During the latest hearing, the court extended their judicial custody, allowing investigators additional time to continue collecting evidence and examining financial records related to the case. Ram Temple Donation Theft Row: Ram Mandir Trust Treasurer Govind Dev Giri Refuses To Resign.
Probe Focuses on Alleged Misappropriation of Donations
According to investigators, the case came to light after discrepancies were noticed during the counting of donations collected from temple donation boxes. A subsequent inquiry allegedly revealed irregularities in the handling of cash, prompting the registration of a criminal case. Police have seized documents and electronic devices as part of the investigation and are examining the movement of funds to determine the extent of the alleged misappropriation.
Authorities Continue Investigation
Officials said the investigation remains underway and that statements of witnesses, temple staff and other individuals connected to the case are being recorded. The authorities are also scrutinising CCTV footage and other evidence gathered from the temple premises. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of further action if additional evidence emerges during the course of the probe. Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Row: Maharashtra Congress to Launch Statewide Protest Against BJP, RSS.
Security and Financial Oversight Under Review
The alleged theft has prompted a review of security arrangements and cash-handling procedures at the Ram Temple. Authorities are assessing existing safeguards to strengthen oversight of donations received from devotees and prevent similar incidents in the future. Officials have indicated that appropriate measures will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
Background
The Ram Temple in Ayodhya receives a large volume of donations from devotees visiting the shrine each day. Following the registration of the alleged donation theft case, police arrested eight suspects, who have since remained in judicial custody. The case continues to be investigated, and the allegations against the accused are yet to be tested in court.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 27, 2026 06:26 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
