Supreme Court Denies Urgent Hearing on Ayodhya Trust Donation Misappropriation Case
Supreme Court's Decision on Ayodhya Trust Case
On Monday, the Supreme Court declined to conduct an urgent hearing regarding a public interest petition related to alleged embezzlement and financial irregularities concerning donations received by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The apex court clarified that, given the seriousness of the matter, there was no immediate need for intervention at this stage. The court instructed that the petition be scheduled for consideration before a regular bench after the upcoming court holidays.
The petition called for an investigation into the alleged misuse of donations received by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, requesting that the inquiry be conducted under the supervision of the Supreme Court by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Supreme Court Refuses Urgent Listing
While addressing the petition that sought an expedited hearing, the Supreme Court made it clear that there was no necessity for immediate action at this point. The court stated, "Currently, there is no need for urgent hearing in this matter." Subsequently, it directed that the petition be listed before a regular bench after the court's holidays.
Demand for CBI-SIT Investigation Under Court Supervision
The petition alleges financial discrepancies in the management of donations received by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and calls for an impartial investigation under the Supreme Court's oversight. The petitioner has requested the formation of a CBI-led Special Investigation Team to ensure a fair and timely investigation into the allegations.
All Eight Accused to Appear in Ayodhya Court
Notably, all eight accused in the alleged embezzlement case related to the Ram Temple donations are scheduled to appear in a special court in Ayodhya on Monday for judicial custody proceedings. Meanwhile, the local bar association is convening to decide whether its lawyers will represent the accused. Enhanced security measures have been implemented at the Ayodhya court, with a significant police presence both inside and outside the court premises. On Friday, a remand magistrate had ordered the accused to be held in jail until Monday. Following their appearance today, they are expected to be returned to judicial custody.
The Ayodhya Bar Association will decide on providing legal representation for the accused.
Recent Developments in the Case
There have been significant developments in the alleged donation misappropriation case concerning the Ram Temple in recent weeks. The Uttar Pradesh police have conducted raids, recovering cash, jewelry, and financial documents, and have recorded statements from several individuals involved in the investigation. Police sources indicate that approximately 140 statements are expected to be recorded as part of the ongoing inquiry.