Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Theft Case Reaches Supreme Court, Independent Probe Sought

The controversy surrounding the alleged theft and financial irregularities in the donations received at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya has escalated to the Supreme Court of India. Advocate Anoop Awasthi has approached the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, seeking the court's intervention in the matter. The plea urges the apex court to take suo motu cognizance of the allegations and order an independent investigation under the supervision of the Supreme Court. The petitioner emphasized the need for a transparent probe and the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) to preserve the faith of millions of devotees who have contributed to the temple's construction.

Supreme Court's Response to Oral Mentioning

During the proceedings, CJI Surya Kant addressed the lawyers regarding the practice of oral mentioning of cases. The Chief Justice requested the legal fraternity to refrain from making oral mentions in the courtroom. Instead, he advised them to submit a written note for the court's consideration. CJI Surya Kant stated that the bench would review the written submissions to determine the urgency and necessity of each case. He further clarified that the court's current priority remains cases related to bail applications and matters involving personal liberty, which will be listed for hearing accordingly.

Uttar Pradesh Government Constitutes SIT

Prior to the matter reaching the Supreme Court, the Uttar Pradesh government took a significant step by announcing the formation of a 3 member Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Saturday. This decision was made following a formal request from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed the formation of the SIT to investigate the allegations related to the financial management and the handling of donation boxes at the temple, while the SIT is tasked with conducting a thorough inquiry into the claims of irregularities and submitting a detailed report to the state government.

Composition of the Special Investigation Team

The SIT comprises high ranking officials to ensure a comprehensive and professional investigation. , an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and Inspector General of Police; and Neel Ratan, the Special Secretary of the Finance Department. The official statement noted that the Trust requested the SIT probe to address rumors circulating on social media regarding the donation boxes and to ensure an impartial investigation into the facts.

Nripendra Misra Clarifies His Role

Amidst the growing controversy, Nripendra Misra, the Chairman of the Ram Temple Construction Committee, provided a clarification regarding his involvement. He stated that his primary responsibility is limited to overseeing the construction work of the temple. Misra declined to comment on the allegations of financial embezzlement or irregularities in the donations.

Political Reactions and Allegations

The issue has also triggered a political face-off in Uttar Pradesh. Akhilesh Yadav, the former Chief Minister and President of the Samajwadi Party, has been vocal about the alleged discrepancies in the temple's offerings. He asserted that any allegations regarding the theft or misuse of donations intended for a sacred cause like the Ram Temple must be taken seriously. In response, Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak criticized Yadav, accusing him of attempting to spread lies and rumors to create a false narrative surrounding the temple. The political debate continues as the SIT begins its investigation into the financial dealings of the Trust.