Investigation Intensifies in Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Scam

Investigation into Alleged Donation Theft at Ram Temple

The inquiry into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has gained momentum. Following a report from the Special Investigation Team (SIT), officials have initiated significant administrative and legal actions. In a notable development, Arjun Dev, the Radio Maintenance Officer (RMO) stationed in Ayodhya for nearly 17 years, has been transferred to Gorakhpur. Meanwhile, all eight individuals arrested in connection with the case have been remanded to judicial custody until July 14. Investigators are now expanding their probe to include the potential involvement of bank officials, temple staff, and others associated with the donation counting process.

Transfer of Arjun Dev After 17 Years in Ayodhya

Arjun Dev has been working in Ayodhya since 2009. Over the years, there have been multiple orders for his transfer, all of which were previously canceled. His recent transfer to Lucknow was also revoked. However, following the SIT's report regarding the donation theft case, he has now been reassigned to Gorakhpur. Dev was responsible for overseeing the CCTV surveillance system in the donation counting room and managing approximately 1,600 CCTV cameras throughout the temple complex. He also oversaw the wireless communication network within the premises.

Concerns Raised About RMO's Role in SIT Report

Sources indicate that the SIT report has raised concerns regarding Dev's role within the temple administration. The report suggests that he was involved in various activities beyond his official duties, including organizing VVIP visits and managing several aspects of temple operations. It is also claimed that his close connections with certain officials of the temple trust contributed to the repeated cancellations of his transfer orders.

Investigation Expands to Include 70 to 80 Individuals

The investigation is no longer limited to just Champat Rai, the General Secretary of the temple trust, and the eight arrested individuals. Reports suggest that around 70 to 80 people are now under scrutiny. Notices have reportedly been issued to these individuals, and they may be questioned as part of the ongoing investigation.

Police Issue Notices to Six Banks Including SBI

The investigation has extended to banking institutions associated with the Ram Temple trust. The police have issued notices to approximately six banks, including the State Bank of India (SBI), Bank of Baroda, and Canara Bank. Investigators are seeking information from SBI regarding employees tasked with overseeing the donation counting process. The roles of two bank employees, Ratnesh Chaturvedi and Gagandeep, who were assigned to supervise cash counting, are also under investigation. Additionally, authorities have requested comprehensive banking information related to temple trust employees and their associates from banks operating in Ayodhya.

Investigation into Lovkush Mishra's Assets

During the investigation, police discovered that a plot of approximately 1,000 square feet located behind Jaipur School in the Shahadatganj area of Ayodhya was purchased in the name of Lovkush Mishra's wife, Supriya Mishra. Sources indicate that this land was acquired for around 2.5 million rupees in October 2025. Investigators estimate that the construction of a three-story house on this property has already incurred costs between 8 to 9 million rupees. The total investment, including the land, is estimated to be around 15 million rupees.

Local residents reported that construction was ongoing until three days ago, but it was halted following the initiation of the police investigation. Authorities are now trying to ascertain how Lovkush Mishra, who reportedly has a monthly income of about 20,000 rupees, managed to acquire such an expensive property.

Potential Action Against Unnamed Individuals

The FIR filed by the Ram Temple trust following the SIT investigation does not only name the eight arrested individuals. It also mentions several unidentified persons, leaving the possibility open for legal action against any other individuals that may emerge during the investigation.