Ram Temple Donation Row: Eight Accused Arrested, Funds Recovered

The ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged embezzlement of donations at the revered Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya has seen significant developments, with all eight individuals named in the First Information Report (FIR) being arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Police. This crucial step in the investigation was widely reported by various credible news outlets around June 25-26, 2026. The initial arrests followed the registration of an FIR based on a complaint lodged by Krishna Mohan, a member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. This complaint was filed after recommendations from a preliminary report by a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT), which the Uttar Pradesh government constituted on June 13, 2026, at the request of the temple trust itself. Among the key facts verified is the recovery of a substantial amount of money. Investigators have reportedly recovered approximately ₹79.85 lakh in cash (close to ₹80 lakh) from the arrested accused. This recovery was presented before the court during the proceedings. Additionally, some reports indicate that gold jewelry and US dollars were also seized during the probe, with a significant portion of the cash recovered from accused Avinash Shukla. The accused were initially remanded to three days of judicial custody on June 26, 2026, and subsequently sent to 14 days of judicial custody on June 29, 2026. More recently, on July 18, 2026, key accused Ramashankar Yadav alias Tinnu, considered close to former Trust General Secretary Champat Rai, and his nephew Manish Yadav, were taken into 39-hour police custody for further interrogation. This indicates an intensifying investigation aimed at tracing more stolen cash, valuables, and verifying properties allegedly acquired using the siphoned-off funds. The investigation has revealed that several of the arrested individuals were temple employees responsible for counting cash donations. Reports suggest that CCTV footage provided direct evidence against six of the eight arrested men, allegedly showing them concealing bundles of currency notes in their clothes, pockets, and shoes during the counting process at the temple's Pilgrim Facilitation Centre. A donation chest bearing the words "Ramrajya Kosh" and equipped with a QR code for digital payments was also recovered from the residence of accused Avinash Shukla, deemed a crucial piece of evidence. The scope of the investigation is now widening beyond the initial eight arrests. Authorities are scrutinizing nearly 50 employees and functionaries associated with the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust to determine if there were further irregularities in handling donations or if any individuals amassed disproportionate assets. Officials are also reviewing property records and financial transactions linked to those under scrutiny. The controversy has also led to political repercussions and calls for greater accountability. Following the allegations and the SIT's findings, General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Dr. Anil Mishra reportedly tendered their resignations from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which were accepted at a Trust meeting on July 6, 2026. Opposition parties, including the Samajwadi Party and Aam Aadmi Party, have criticized the handling of the case, alleging delays and attempts to shield influential individuals, and have demanded a Supreme Court-monitored investigation. In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a batch of pleas on July 20, 2026, seeking a fair and time-bound probe into the alleged embezzlement. These petitions include demands for a CBI-led multi-disciplinary SIT investigation, a forensic audit of the Trust's finances, and an audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). The apex court has also directed the SIT to file a status report in a sealed cover. The Ram Temple holds immense religious and cultural significance for millions in India, having been built through widespread public contributions. The allegations of donation theft have, therefore, deeply disturbed devotees, raising concerns about the sanctity and transparent management of such sacred institutions. The ongoing expanded probe and the Supreme Court's involvement underscore the seriousness with which this matter is being treated, aiming to ensure transparency and restore public trust.

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