Ram Mandir Donation Theft: SIT Conducts 8 Hour Probe, Questions Bank Officials

The investigation into the Ayodhya Ram Mandir donation theft case has taken a significant turn as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) intensifies its scrutiny. On Friday, a three-member SIT conducted a marathon investigation lasting approximately 8 hours within the Ram Janmabhoomi complex. This intensive session was focused on verifying financial transactions related to land purchases made for the trust and examining the internal mechanisms of donation management. The team meticulously cross-referenced records to identify any discrepancies in the financial flow and the handling of temple offerings.

Questioning of Bank Officials and Trust Members

During the 8-hour long operation, the SIT questioned several high-ranking bank officials and personnel involved in the cash counting process. The investigation specifically targeted the financial transactions conducted through various banks for land acquisitions. The SIT sought to understand the standard operating procedures (SOP) followed during these transactions and whether any protocols were bypassed. In addition to banking staff, the SIT also scrutinized the property details and financial records of key trust figures, including General Secretary Champat Rai, Trustee Dr, while anil Mishra, and Administrator Gopal Rao. This move indicates that the probe is looking into every administrative level to ensure total transparency.

Focus on Cash Counting and Banking Procedures

Sources indicate that employees from the State Bank who were responsible for counting the cash offerings were subjected to detailed questioning. The SIT is investigating whether the established norms for handling and counting large sums of cash were strictly adhered to. The role of banking officials has come under the scanner to determine if there was any negligence or complicity that allowed the alleged theft to occur. The verification of payments made for land purchases is a critical component of this phase, as the SIT aims to map the entire movement of funds associated with the trust.

Security Personnel and Wheelchair Riders Under Radar

The scope of the investigation has now expanded to include staff members involved in the daily management of devotees. According to sources, three wheelchair service riders and certain security personnel from the Darshan Cell are currently on the SIT radar. There are allegations that these individuals might have acted as 'carriers' for the personnel involved in cash counting, while specifically, information has surfaced regarding one rider who allegedly received 2 lakh rupees from the accused, Avinash Shukla, for the purpose of purchasing a vehicle. The investigative agencies are now gathering information regarding the properties owned by these individuals in Ayodhya to check for any unexplained wealth.

Seizure of Audit Documents and Deadline Extension

During the search, the SIT also questioned a trust employee responsible for the maintenance of jewelry and ornaments. A significant development occurred when the team examined old internal audit records and identified several alleged irregularities. Consequently, the SIT has seized these important documents for further forensic and legal analysis, while recognizing the complexity and the vast amount of data involved, the state government has extended the deadline for the SIT to submit its final report until July 15. The team continues to probe the potential involvement of more individuals as they piece together the evidence from the seized records and the statements recorded during the 8-hour session.