SC refuses urgent hearing plea seeking CBI-led probe into Ayodhya Ram Mandir donation theft row
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday refused to grant an urgent hearing on a petition seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation-led multi-agency probe into the alleged embezzlement of donation funds at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir.The top court observed that “heavens are not going to fall” if the matter is heard after the court resumes regular functioning following the summer break. The PIL, filed by two advocates, sought a court-monitored investigation by the CBI and other agencies into the alleged misappropriation of donation funds collected at the Ram Mandir.During the mentioning, the petitioners argued that the probe being conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Police did not inspire confidence, alleging that crucial evidence was not being preserved properly.A bench of Justices MM Sundresh and Sheel Nagu declined the plea for immediate listing and said the petition would be taken up during the week of July 12–17.The plea comes amid an ongoing police investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations made to the Ram Mandir. As part of the probe, former Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai’s statement has been recorded by the police, while statements of other senior trust officials, including trustee Anil Mishra, may be recorded if required. Earlier, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust said it was “shocked, hurt, and deeply saddened” by the allegations and reiterated its commitment to a fair investigation. The Trust also confirmed receiving the resignations of Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, adding that the matter would be considered at its next meeting.Seeking to reassure devotees, the Trust said all valuables personally offered to Lord Ram, including silver bricks and jewellery, were safe and fully accounted for, expressing confidence that the truth would ultimately prevail.
