Investigation into Alleged Misuse of Donations for Ram Temple Intensifies
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is intensifying its probe into allegations of misappropriation of donations for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The investigation has expanded to include questioning of temple priests and administrators, revealing potential lapses in standard operating procedures. The controversy erupted after claims of missing funds were made by opposition leader Akhilesh Yadav, leading to political tensions between the ruling BJP and opposition parties. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has defended the temple trust and criticized opposition attempts to undermine the temple's reputation. This ongoing investigation raises significant questions about accountability and oversight in the management of temple donations.
Jun 20, 2026, 15:41 IST
SIT Expands Investigation Scope
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing allegations of misappropriation of funds donated for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has broadened its inquiry beyond just cash counting. The team is now questioning priests and members of the temple administration. Sources indicate that on Friday, Anil Mishra was interrogated for approximately three hours as part of the ongoing investigation. Investigators have identified deficiencies in adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to the management of donations and administrative duties. Furthermore, the SIT discovered that many individuals working within the temple complex had not been assigned clear responsibilities through official orders. Instead, several operational decisions were being made based on verbal instructions, raising concerns about accountability and oversight.
Temple Management Under Scrutiny
Temple Management Under Scrutiny
The investigation has also brought KD Tiwari, who is in charge of the sanctum sanctorum, into the spotlight regarding alleged irregularities in managing the donation funds. This controversy emerged on June 7 when Akhilesh Yadav, the president of the Samajwadi Party, cited media reports claiming that millions of rupees donated to the Ram Temple had gone missing. He urged the judiciary to take cognizance of the matter and called for a thorough investigation. Following these allegations, political rhetoric has escalated between the ruling BJP and opposition parties. Yadav asserted that this controversy has adversely affected local businesses reliant on religious tourism in Ayodhya and demanded daily updates on the SIT's investigation.
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath Responds to Donation Controversy
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath Responds to Donation Controversy
On Friday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath defended the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and accused opposition parties of attempting to tarnish the image of Ayodhya and the temple. Targeting the Samajwadi Party and Congress, Adityanath stated that these parties have never wanted Ayodhya to gain prominence, as they lack the vision and capability to bring about such change. While addressing various events in Ayodhya, he remarked, "There are attempts to defame Ayodhya, the Ram Temple, and the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. People should not fall prey to such conspiracies." The Chief Minister confirmed that the SIT investigation was initiated at the request of the Trust and assured that the inquiry would reveal the complete truth.