Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The theft of offerings at the Ram Temple in Uttar Pradesh’s Ayodhya has prompted a complete overhaul in how donations from devotees are counted, with eight accused already arrested in the case after investigators found that most of the theft, amounting to several lakh rupees, occurred during the counting process itself.
New Rules Aim to Prevent Future Theft
To deter thieves and ensure full visibility, note counting is no longer done on tables and chairs but on a plywood-covered floor, allowing everyone in the room to be clearly seen at all times. Staff members assigned to count notes are barred from talking to one another while on duty, and any employee taking frequent breaks, whether for using the restroom or other reasons, is now closely monitored. Additionally, those involved in counting are not permitted to linger in the canteen for extended periods, and every corner of the counting room now falls under CCTV surveillance. Personnel stationed in the monitoring room are also required to remain at their seats throughout their duty hours. Sources said these measures are intended to bring complete transparency to the donation-counting process and prevent similar incidents from recurring.
SIT Investigation Widens with Extended Timeline
On July 3, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement returned to the temple premises to continue its inquiry. The state government had granted the SIT a 15-day extension on July 1 to broaden the scope of its investigation and conduct a comprehensive probe into all aspects of the case. An FIR was registered on June 25, following the SIT’s preliminary report submitted on June 23, which led to the arrest of eight accused individuals. In the aftermath, Champat Rai and former trustee Anil Mishra resigned, citing moral responsibility for the alleged misappropriation of donations, shortly after police arrested all eight individuals named in the FIR.
Political Row Erupts Over Alleged Embezzlement
The alleged embezzlement of donations meant for the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir has sparked a major political controversy in Uttar Pradesh, with opposition parties strongly criticising the ruling BJP, even as the state government insists a transparent investigation is underway. BJP MP Dinesh Sharma stated that the chief minister had ordered the SIT probe and urged people to have faith in the ongoing transparent investigation. State Cabinet Minister Sanjay Nishad added that, unlike previous governments, the current administration is not covering up instances of corruption.
