Ayodhya Donation Probe: New CCTV Footage, Trust Questions, and Expanding Investigation Raise Fresh Concerns

The investigation into the alleged donation theft at the Ayodhya Ram Temple has intensified, with fresh developments adding new layers to the high-profile case. A local court has remanded all eight arrested accused to judicial custody until July 13, while investigators continue expanding the scope of the probe into the temple’s donation management system. A key development is the emergence of CCTV footage dated June 5, which has sparked fresh questions regarding the sequence of events before the case became public. According to reports, police had allegedly conducted a search at the residence of one of the arrested accused on that day and reportedly recovered a bag containing cash. The footage has raised questions about the timeline of official action and whether authorities were aware of the alleged irregularities before the case gained public attention. The investigation has also widened beyond the arrested individuals. Sources indicate that notices have been issued to senior trust-linked figures, including Champat Rai, Anil Mishra, and Gopal Rao, while statements of several persons associated with the temple administration have been recorded. Banking transactions connected to the case are also reportedly under scrutiny, with investigators seeking financial records as part of the probe. Meanwhile, the Ayodhya Bar Association has announced that its members will not represent the arrested accused in court and has demanded a wider investigation into the alleged irregularities. The association has also called for action against additional individuals if evidence establishes their involvement. Reports further suggest that nearly 70 to 80 individuals have come under the broader ambit of the investigation, with authorities preparing detailed questionnaires for further interrogation. Legal proceedings are expected to continue in the coming weeks, while additional hearings may take place after July 12. As the investigation progresses, political reactions have also intensified, with opposition parties demanding accountability and the government maintaining that a fair and impartial investigation will be carried out against anyone found responsible.

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