A major financial scandal has hit the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya involving the systematic embezzlement of cash donations and valuable offerings. Contrary to rumors of a physical "theft of Ram Bhagwan" (the idols), the ongoing investigation focuses entirely on a massive insider racket targeting the cash and ornaments offered by lakhs of devotees into the temple's donation boxes (hundis).
A major financial scandal has hit the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya involving the systematic embezzlement of cash donations and valuable offerings. Contrary to rumors of a physical "theft of Ram Bhagwan" (the idols), the ongoing investigation focuses entirely on a massive insider racket targeting the cash and ornaments offered by lakhs of devotees into the temple's donation boxes (hundis).
Core Details of the Ayodhya Donation Scam
The Scope:-
Whistleblower reports and initial estimates flagged a discrepancy of
₹7 crore to ₹7.5 crore. However, as the probe expands into the sudden overnight assets accumulated by low-wage workers, investigating agencies suspect the total siphoned money could exceed ₹200 crore.
Modus Operandi: -
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe revealed that cash-counting personnel—including temple employees and third-party contractors—exploited severe security loopholes. Tellers deliberately used their bodies or physical materials to block CCTV cameras. They stuffed high-value ₹500 currency notes, gold, and silver items into their clothing and socks.
Audit Manipulation: -
Extra notes were intentionally bundled into cash piles sent to the bank. These were pocketed upon arrival, ensuring that the bank logs matched the altered paperwork perfectly to evade standard financial audits. Crucially, up to eight months of CCTV data tracking the cash tables was deliberately wiped from the servers.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Actions
FIR and Arrests: -
Following a written complaint by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, an FIR was registered at Ayodhya's Ram Janmabhoomi police station under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Eight core accused individuals have been arrested and sent to judicial custody.
Lifestyles of the Accused: -
Police raids have led to the recovery of nearly ₹80 lakh in cash. The investigation highlighted that low-salaried staff members earning between ₹14,000 and ₹20,000 per month had suddenly acquired luxury SUVs, built sprawling farmhouses, and amassed properties worth crores. One lead supervisor's personal assets are valued close to ₹50 crore.
SIT Extension: -
The Uttar Pradesh government has extended the SIT’s tenure to conduct a comprehensive deep dive into the financial trails. The case has triggered massive national outrage and strict warnings from state authorities, as well as demands from political leaders for complete transparency and a court-monitored investigion.
MJF Lion ER YK Sharma
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