Investigation Uncovers Long-Standing Fraud in Ram Temple Donations

Ongoing Investigation Reveals Shocking Details

As the investigation into the alleged theft and misappropriation of donations at the grand Ram Temple progresses, startling revelations are emerging. A joint inquiry by the police and the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has clarified that this fraud was not a sudden occurrence but rather a well-planned scheme that has been ongoing for an extended period. Sources indicate that during police remand, when questioned about the substantial amounts deposited in their bank accounts, the accused could not provide satisfactory explanations regarding the legal sources of this money. However, investigators have only managed to obtain CCTV footage from the last 45 days, which led to the identification and arrest of eight suspects.

Where Was the Stolen Money Used?

During the investigation, police are meticulously examining the bank accounts of the arrested individuals. Initial findings suggest that the stolen funds were either deposited into bank accounts or used for purchasing property. Notably, the accused have been unable to provide concrete answers regarding the large sums in their accounts. Consequently, police are conducting continuous interrogations based on their banking transactions.

Increase in Stolen Amount During Kumbh Mela

The investigation has also revealed that while smaller amounts were previously stolen, the donations surged significantly during and after the Kumbh Mela held in Prayagraj. As a result, the accused began to embezzle larger sums. The Kumbh Mela took place from January 13 to February 26, 2025, attracting a massive influx of devotees who visited the Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. This period saw an unprecedented crowd and record-breaking donations to the temple.

Bank Records as Key Evidence

The SIT utilized the 45 days of CCTV footage to catch suspicious activities among some staff members during the counting of donations. This footage was crucial in identifying the suspects. However, investigators assert that the theft had been occurring long before this. The accused attempted to destroy old evidence, but the records of money deposited in their bank accounts became significant evidence against them.

Regular Deposits in Bank Accounts

The investigation revealed that all eight arrested suspects had been regularly depositing large sums into their bank accounts for quite some time. During questioning, they failed to explain the source of these deposits, raising suspicions that the stolen money had been concealed through their bank accounts for an extended period.

Neglect of Rules Led to Irregularities

The inquiry also uncovered that security protocols for counting donations were gradually overlooked. Key findings from the investigation include:

1. Continuous disregard for donation counting rules at the collection center.

2. Lax searches during staff movements.

3. Initially, staff counting donations were required to wear pocketless t-shirts and pants to prevent cash concealment, but this rule was later ignored.

Comprehensive System Implemented Post-Pran Pratishtha Ceremony

Following the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple in 2024, extensive arrangements were made for the convenience of devotees and the secure management of donations. Forty donation boxes were installed at various locations within the temple complex. A collection center was established in the basement of the visitor facility, where donations were counted. The trust had also implemented strict security measures for the staff working there, but the investigation revealed that adherence to these rules weakened over time.

Did Outsourced Staff Take Over the Work?

According to the investigation, when Lord Ram Lalla was temporarily placed in the temple, the volume of donations was limited. However, after their installation in the grand temple's sanctum, both the number of devotees and donations surged rapidly. As the workload increased, the bank began hiring outsourced staff for counting donations. During the Kumbh Mela, the influx of devotees to Ayodhya further increased the volume of donations. At that time, around 40 staff members were deployed for counting donations. Investigating agencies believe that this is where the irregularities began.