Ayodhya’s revered Ram Mandir has been thrust into controversy after allegations of large-scale embezzlement of temple donations surfaced.
Following a preliminary investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), an FIR has been registered against eight named individuals and several unidentified persons, sparking outrage among devotees and raising questions about accountability in one of India’s most sacred trusts.
The FIR, lodged at the Ram Janmabhoomi Police Station, was based on a complaint filed by Krishna Mohan, a member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The complaint alleged that the accused systematically siphoned off offerings made at the temple, betraying the faith of millions of worshippers.
Two accused, Anukalp Mishra and Lavkush Mishra, have been arrested after the alleged recovery of the money from them, while six accused have been taken into custody.
The Uttar Pradesh government directed the case to be registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), underscoring the seriousness of the charges.
The SIT’s findings, which corroborated the allegations, have intensified scrutiny on temple management practices. Devotees and civil society groups are demanding transparency in donation handling, while political observers note that the case could have wider ramifications given the temple’s symbolic importance.
As the investigation deepens, the arrests mark only the beginning of what could be a protracted legal battle.
