The three-member Uttar Pradesh government’s Special Investigation Team (SIT), investigating alleged irregularities in Ram Temple donations, has submitted its final report to the state government and the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The report highlights serious shortcomings in financial management and oversight at the trust level.
However, the investigation found no evidence of personal misappropriation of funds or any ulterior motive against Champat Rai, the former general secretary of the trust, and Anil Mishra, a former member. Both resigned from their posts on June 25.
Former associate named as the alleged mastermind
The SIT has reportedly named Ram Shankar Yadav, alias “Tinnu Yadav,” as the main accused in the conspiracy to divert donations. He was Champat Rai’s former associate and driver.
During the investigation, police examined documents related to bank transactions, property purchases, and investments. According to the report, the donations were allegedly invested in real estate, land, and personal businesses.
A total of eight people have been arrested in this case. Police also recovered approximately ₹79.85 lakh from the accused last month. The money was hidden in bathrooms, haystacks, and among firewood.
SBI’s role also questioned
The SIT has also raised questions about the functioning of the State Bank of India (SBI). According to the report, a large number of envelopes containing cash and checks were sent to bank branches, but the necessary precautions were not taken in the verification and reconciliation process.
The investigation also revealed that the trust lacked robust financial systems for the collection, accounting, and security of donations. The SIT has recommended appointing a professional auditor and creating a separate finance and compliance cell.
The matter came to light in June
The alleged misappropriation of Ram Temple donations came to light on June 7. Samajwadi Party leader Tej Narayan ‘Pawan’ Pandey had alleged irregularities in donations worth approximately 5 to 7.5 crore rupees received by the temple.
Following this, the Uttar Pradesh government formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on June 13. The SIT submitted its interim report on July 20, following which eight people involved in the collection and counting of donations were arrested.
However, a second SIT formed by the Supreme Court on July 20 is still investigating the matter. This team is headed by IG Kiran S and includes Ayodhya DIG Somen Burma and SSP Gaurav Grover.