Controversy Surrounds Ram Temple Donations as UP Deputy CM Supports Champat Rai

The Ram Temple donation controversy has intensified as Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya expresses support for Champat Rai, amidst serious allegations from a former employee. The situation escalated with protests from lawyers demanding accountability and a thorough investigation into the alleged misappropriation of funds. As tensions rise, the Bar Association is pushing for legal action against key figures involved. This article delves into the unfolding events and the responses from various stakeholders, highlighting the complexities surrounding this sensitive issue.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 3, 2026, 12:51 IST

Support for Champat Rai Amid Donation Controversy

In light of the ongoing controversy regarding donations for the Ram Temple, Uttar Pradesh's Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya has come forward in support of Champat Rai. He emphasized that there is no need to unnecessarily escalate the issue. While discussing the matter, Maurya stated that individuals like Champat Rai, who have tirelessly worked for the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi, are deeply hurt by the allegations. He urged that the donation issue for the Ram Temple should not be blown out of proportion.

Allegations from a Former Employee

Maurya's remarks came a day after a former employee of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust made several accusations against those managing the temple. This ex-employee, who claims to have worked at the temple for approximately 18 months, alleged that close associates of former General Secretary Champat Rai, including his driver Tinnu Yadav, coerced staff and volunteers into performing personal services. Meanwhile, lawyers from the Faizabad Bar Association organized a protest march regarding the alleged embezzlement of donations, demanding the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) against Champat Rai, member Anil Mishra, and temple official Gopal Rao.

Lawyers Demand Action

Kalika Prasad Mishra, president of the District Bar Association, revealed that Krishna Mohan, the complainant who filed the initial FIR, was also named as an accused in the complaint submitted to the police by the lawyers. The lawyers marched from the court premises to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi police station, submitting their complaint and insisting on the registration of an FIR and a fair investigation into the allegations. During the march, they vocally protested against the officials of the Ram Temple Trust, leading to significant efforts by police to manage the crowd. Some lawyers reported minor injuries due to the scuffles.

Police Assurance

Upon arriving at the police station, several lawyers gathered in the officer's office, demanding immediate registration of the FIR. Police officials assured them that the complaint would be investigated and appropriate legal action would follow. Kalika Prasad Mishra informed reporters that the Bar Association is advocating for the filing of FIRs against several named individuals and a thorough investigation into the matter.