Champat Rai Denies Involvement in Ram Mandir Donation Controversy

Champat Rai, the former General Secretary of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, has resigned while denying any involvement in the alleged donation embezzlement case. He claims to have played a key role in uncovering the issue through the installation of surveillance cameras. As the investigation unfolds, Rai expresses his intention to leave Ayodhya without a tarnished reputation. Meanwhile, lawyers have demanded legal action against him and other trust members, intensifying the controversy surrounding the Ram Mandir donations. This article delves into the details of the ongoing situation and the implications for those involved.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 3, 2026, 13:27 IST

Champat Rai's Defense

Champat Rai, who recently resigned from his position as General Secretary of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, has firmly rejected any involvement in the alleged donation embezzlement case. He claims that he was instrumental in uncovering the supposed misappropriation. In his defense, Rai stated that it was upon his suggestion that hidden surveillance cameras were installed, which helped in identifying the alleged theft.

Rai's Statements on His Tenure

Rai expressed that his service in Ayodhya has concluded, but he will not leave with a tarnished reputation. Sources indicate that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) revisited Ayodhya today to interrogate Rai, Anil Mishra, and Gopal Rao collectively. It was reported that after a six-day investigation, the SIT members returned to the temple premises to conduct separate questioning of the three individuals. Rai emphasized that he would not carry the stigma associated with the alleged donation scandal as he departs from Ayodhya.

Allegations of Betrayal

Currently in seclusion, Rai has confided in a few close associates about feeling betrayed. However, it remains unclear who he was referring to. This development comes amid demands from a group of lawyers for criminal action against certain trust officials related to the alleged donation misappropriation. Reports suggest that the future of Rai and fellow trust member Anil Mishra, who has also resigned, may be determined by a two-thirds majority vote during the upcoming meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust scheduled for July 6 in Ayodhya.

Lawyers Demand Action

In a related significant event, lawyers from the Faizabad Bar Association organized a protest march concerning the alleged embezzlement of donations for the Ram Mandir. They submitted a complaint to the police demanding the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Champat Rai, Anil Mishra, and Gopal Rao. Kalika Prasad Mishra, the president of the District Bar Association, informed reporters that Krishna Mohan, the complainant who initially filed the FIR, has also been named as an accused in the complaint submitted to the police.