The investigation into the alleged theft of donations at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is reaching a critical juncture as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) expands its probe. In a significant development, the SIT has summoned Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh to provide evidence regarding his allegations. Sanjay Singh has been asked to appear at the Divisional Commissioner's office in Lucknow today at 11 AM to submit documents related to the alleged scams in land transactions and donation management during the temple's construction.
Sanjay Singh's Allegations and SIT Summons
Sanjay Singh has been a vocal critic of the financial dealings surrounding the Ram Mandir, raising serious allegations of corruption and theft of offerings. The SIT, which is currently investigating these claims, has now sought the documentary evidence that the MP claims to possess. The summons specifically targets the allegations made by Singh regarding the purchase and sale of land in Ayodhya and the alleged misappropriation of donations. Sanjay Singh confirmed his appearance through a post on the social media platform X, where he shared a video stating his intent to cooperate with the investigation.
MP's Response and Document Submission
In his video message, Sanjay Singh stated, "The SIT investigating the theft of offerings and donations at the temple of Lord Shri Ram has called me to the Lucknow Divisional Commissioner's office at 11 AM. I had also requested time for this. " This move is expected to bring new facts to light as the SIT scrutinizes the evidence provided by the political leader. The MP's involvement marks a high-profile turn in the ongoing investigation into the temple's financial affairs.
Key Findings of the SIT Interim Report
The SIT has already submitted its first report to the Uttar Pradesh government, and sources indicate that the findings are quite revealing. The first page of the SIT report reportedly recommends the filing of an FIR against 4 individuals. Notably, one of these 4 people is said to be a close associate of Champat Rai. On top of that, the SIT has recommended taking action against certain bank officials, suggesting that the irregularities may have extended into the banking processes associated with the temple's funds.
Systemic Failures in Donation Management
The SIT's interim report highlights significant flaws in the system of managing offerings at the Ram Mandir. According to the findings, the process of removing donations from the collection boxes and transporting them to the counting center has been riddled with irregularities. The SIT observed that the actual process of counting the offerings at the center was also conducted incorrectly. Although the Temple Trust had established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for counting donations, the SIT found that these protocols were largely ignored. While the interim report hints at the involvement of influential figures, it has not officially named them yet, as the SIT plans to conduct further investigations in Ayodhya.
VHP Demands Strict Action and Fast-Track Trial
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has taken a tough stance on the matter, demanding immediate accountability. VHP International President and Advocate Alok Kumar has called for the immediate registration of an FIR against those involved in the theft of Ram Mandir offerings. He emphasized that the investigation should be completed as quickly as possible. In a social media post, the VHP further demanded that the case of donation theft be tried in a fast-track court. The organization has urged the government to ensure that anyone found guilty of stealing from the offerings receives the strictest possible punishment, reflecting the gravity of the situation for devotees.