Ram Temple Donation Theft Probe: SIT Seeks More Time to Complete Investigation
The three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged theft and embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has requested additional time from the Uttar Pradesh government to complete its investigation.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged theft and embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has sought additional time to complete its investigation, citing the complexity of the case. The three-member panel, constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government on June 13, is examining allegations of financial irregularities involving devotees' contributions to the temple.
The SIT, headed by Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, has been tasked with determining the extent of the alleged misappropriation of donation funds and identifying those responsible. Officials familiar with the probe said the investigation involves examining financial records, statements of witnesses, and other evidence before the team submits its final report. Ram Temple Donation Theft Row: Ram Mandir Trust Treasurer Govind Dev Giri Refuses To Resign.
The request for more time reflects the scale of the investigation and the need to verify multiple aspects of the alleged irregularities before drawing conclusions.
Case Surfaced After Suspicious Cash Recovery
The donation theft case came to light after ₹40,000 in cash was reportedly discovered in a toilet within the temple premises. The unexpected recovery, coupled with the vigilance of security personnel, led authorities to launch a deeper inquiry, which subsequently uncovered an alleged organised operation involving the misappropriation of devotees' offerings.
The investigation has since prompted authorities to review the existing donation collection and monitoring mechanisms to strengthen transparency and prevent similar incidents in the future. Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Row: Maharashtra Congress to Launch Statewide Protest Against BJP, RSS.
Multiple Agencies Examining the Case
Apart from the SIT probe, the matter has also drawn judicial attention. Earlier this week, the Supreme Court sought a status report on the investigation within a week and asked the Centre, the Uttar Pradesh government and the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust to respond to the matter.
Investigators are also examining financial transactions linked to the accused and tracing the alleged diversion of donation funds as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Focus on Accountability and Transparency
The alleged theft has triggered widespread concern over the handling of donations at one of the country's most visited religious sites. Authorities have maintained that the investigation will be carried out thoroughly and that appropriate action will be taken based on the SIT's findings.
The final report is expected to outline the extent of the alleged financial irregularities, identify accountability, and recommend measures to improve oversight of donation management at the temple.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 17, 2026 02:48 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
