Ram Mandir Donation Theft: Mastermind Avinash Reveals Distribution Spot Near 14 Kosi Marg

The investigation into the high-profile Ram Mandir donation theft case in Ayodhya has reached a critical juncture with startling new revelations coming to light. As the police intensify their probe, it has been discovered that the stolen money was systematically distributed at a specific location near the 14 Kosi Parikrama Marg. This development follows the interrogation of the mastermind, Avinash Shukla, who was taken on remand by the police to reconstruct the sequence of events and identify the key operational hubs of the gang.

The Distribution Hub and Recoveries

During the investigation, Avinash Shukla pointed out the exact spot near the 14 Kosi Parikrama Marg where the illicit funds were divided among the gang members. According to the police, this location served as the primary meeting point for the accused after the theft. The gang members involved in this distribution process included Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Kamlesh Pandey, and Tinnu Yadav, along with others who have been arrested so far. The police have successfully recovered a significant amount of stolen cash and several valuable items that were hidden at this site. The recovery of these items is considered a major piece of evidence against the 8 individuals currently in custody.

Tinnu Yadav's Dominance in the Temple Complex

The investigation has also shed light on the extraordinary influence wielded by Tinnu Yadav within the Ram Mandir premises. It has been revealed that Tinnu Yadav had established a parallel system of authority that even the local police department seemed to follow, while his brother reportedly held the keys to the counting room, providing the gang with direct access to the temple's offerings. Tinnu Yadav didn't operate alone; at least 5 of his relatives were employed within the temple complex, ensuring his control over various internal operations. He was known to issue orders via walkie-talkie, and every employee within the premises was reportedly bound to follow his instructions. His influence was so pervasive that even the movement of vehicles within the complex was subject to his personal approval.

The VIP Darshan Racket and Extortion

Beyond the direct theft of donations, the gang operated a sophisticated VIP darshan racket that extended to nearby hotels and homestays, while while the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust issues VIP passes free of cost for special guests, Tinnu Yadav and his associates turned this into a lucrative business. They established a network with local accommodation providers to identify wealthy or desperate devotees. These devotees were lured with the promise of a hassle-free VIP entry. The gang charged 500 to 1000 rupees from regular pilgrims, while wealthier individuals were often charged up to 2000 rupees for the same service.

The Role of Chhotu and Daily Collections

A name that frequently surfaced during the investigation of the VIP entrance was Chhotu. He was reportedly the key operative at the VIP gate who facilitated the entry of those who had paid the gang. For devotees who didn't book through hotels, Chhotu acted as the direct link to secure VIP passes through Tinnu Yadav's influence. The proceeds from this extortion were then divided among the gang members, which included both temple-affiliated staff and external individuals. It's estimated that since the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, the gang had been extorting lakhs of rupees daily through this illegal network. The police are now looking into the involvement of other temple staff and outsiders who may have been part of this extensive criminal operation.