Ram Mandir Donation Scam: Probe Deepens as Evidence Trail Reaches Banks, Trust Under Fresh Scrutiny

The investigation into the alleged donation theft at the Ayodhya Ram Temple has intensified, with fresh developments raising serious questions over the handling of the case by the temple trust, investigators, and local authorities. A court has remanded all eight arrested accused to judicial custody until July 13, while the probe continues to expand toward financial institutions and additional suspects. According to sources, investigators have issued notices to senior trust-linked figures, including Champat Rai, Anil Mishra, and Gopal Rao, as well as several bank officials, seeking transaction records, account details, and locker information. Nearly 70 to 80 individuals are now reportedly under the scanner as investigators attempt to trace the alleged movement of donation funds. The controversy has deepened following allegations that police were aware of suspicious cash recovery as early as June 5 but did not immediately register an FIR. Questions are also being raised over the delay in making the recovery public and whether the lack of timely legal action gave suspects an opportunity to destroy evidence. Investigators are reportedly examining deleted mobile chats and digital records through forensic analysis after suspects allegedly erased key communications before surrendering their devices. Searches conducted at the homes of the accused have also led to the recovery of jewellery, property documents, cash, and other financial records that are now being scrutinized. Meanwhile, legal circles in Ayodhya have reacted strongly, with local lawyers stating that they will not represent the accused in court. The controversy has also triggered a broader debate over the administration of the temple, with discussions emerging about adopting a government-supervised CEO model—similar to the management systems used at several major temples across India—to strengthen financial transparency and accountability. As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to examine financial assets, property acquisitions, and the internal management practices of the temple trust before deciding on further legal action.

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