A Special Investigation Team is probing allegations that several crores of rupees [1] donated to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust were misappropriated.
The investigation centers on whether funds intended for the Ayodhya temple were diverted for personal or political gain. Because the trust manages massive public contributions, the lack of financial transparency has sparked a legal and political battle over accountability.
Activists and legal professionals have sought details on the donations through the Right to Information (RTI) Act. However, the trust and the government have resisted these requests. Prashant Bhushan, a senior Supreme Court advocate, said the trust claims it is not a public authority and refuses to comply with RTI requests.
The controversy has become a focal point for opposition leaders. Akhilesh Yadav, chief of the Samajwadi Party, said, "Lord Ram won't allow those who stole 'Ram dhan' to win polls."
Recent reports indicate the investigation is reaching a critical phase. A source reporting on the SIT said the team is likely to submit its final report to the Uttar Pradesh government within the next 24 to 48 hours [2]. Despite this, some reports suggest the probe could be handed over to the Economic Offences Wing, which may alter the timeline of the findings.
To manage the trust's administration, Jagdish Aphale was recently appointed as the trust secretary. His appointment comes as the trust continues to face pressure from activists Anjali Bhardwaj and Amrita Johri to disclose its financial records. The activists argue that the trust should be treated as a public body due to the nature of its funding.
“"Lord Ram won't allow those who stole 'Ram dhan' to win polls."”
This dispute highlights a systemic tension in India between the autonomy of religious trusts and the legal requirements for public transparency. If the trust is legally deemed a private entity, it can avoid RTI disclosures, potentially shielding the movement of large sums of money from public scrutiny. The outcome of the SIT report will likely determine whether this remains a political talking point or evolves into a criminal prosecution for financial fraud.
