SIT Investigates Financial Discrepancies in Ram Temple Offering Records in Ayodhya
An SIT is investigating financial discrepancies regarding offerings at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The probe focuses on donation accounting, missing inventory records, and potential irregularities in land purchases and construction procurement, with daily updates provided to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister.
Highlights
- •The SIT is investigating alleged embezzlement and financial irregularities regarding Ram Temple offerings.
- •Investigators found major gaps in the accounting and storage records of gold and silver ornaments.
- •The probe covers the high-footfall Maha Kumbh Mela period when donation volumes surged significantly.
- •The investigation has expanded to include scrutiny of land purchases and construction material procurement.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has initiated an inquiry into potential financial mismanagement involving Ram Temple offerings in Ayodhya. The team, focused on addressing reports of irregularities, recently met with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to provide an update on their ongoing probe. The investigation center around the transparency of donations and the accounting processes utilized by the temple trust.
Scrutinizing Donation Records and Financial Integrity
Investigators have identified significant discrepancies regarding the documentation of precious offerings, such as gold, silver, and other valuable gemstones donated by devotees. During official questioning, several representatives of the temple trust were reportedly unable to offer clear explanations concerning the inventory management, secure storage, and final accounting of these ornaments. The SIT has maintained strict monitoring, directing key trust functionaries to remain in Ayodhya as the probe intensifies.
The scope of the audit includes the period surrounding the Maha Kumbh Mela, which occurred between January and February 2025. During this peak period, the temple experienced massive footfall, with nearly 10 lakh visitors arriving daily. Donation boxes were filling up at an unprecedented rate, creating logistical and administrative challenges for staff responsible for monitoring the inflows of cash and valuables. The SIT is currently consolidating digital records and formal statements to build a comprehensive report for state authorities.
Expanded Probe into Procurement and Trust Governance
Beyond the accounting of daily offerings, the SIT has expanded its investigation to evaluate the financial conduct of the temple trust in other operational areas. This broader inquiry now covers the procurement of construction materials and various land acquisition deals. Critics and political organizations have previously raised concerns regarding whether certain land parcels were purchased at prices exceeding current market valuations.
This investigation was formally established by the state administration on June 13, following a direct request from the temple trust to investigate allegations of donation misappropriation. The three-member panel tasked with the responsibility includes Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, Inspector General of Police Kiran S., and Finance Department Special Secretary Neel Ratan. As the inquiry progresses, these officials are providing daily updates to the office of the Chief Minister, ensuring that all findings regarding the Ram Temple financial records are handled with administrative rigor and transparency.
