After Ayodhya, Alleged Cash Theft at Gujarat’s Ambaji temple Triggers Debate Over Temple Security

As the alleged theft of crores of rupees in donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya continues to spark debate across the country, a similar allegation of stolen donations has come to light at Gujarat’s renowned pilgrimage site of Ambaji. The incident has raised fresh concerns over the security arrangements at major temples in the state.

Devotees have expressed anger over the alleged theft at Ambaji and have demanded strict action against those involved.

Questions raised over security at Ambaji temple

The alleged donation theft at Ambaji temple came to light in April this year. According to the investigation, CCTV footage showed the main accused, Chirag Thakor, allegedly stealing bundles of cash from the temple donation collection on April 21.

On May 7, Chirag Thakor was allegedly seen concealing a bundle of notes worth ₹1.04 lakh in his pocket and leaving the premises on the pretext of going to the washroom.

Following a complaint filed by the additional collector of Banaskantha, a case was registered at the Ambaji police station. Three people were arrested in connection with the incident, but they have since been released on bail.

The controversy has triggered serious questions about the security arrangements at the temple, with devotees demanding stronger safeguards for temple donations.

Ambaji temple had also witnessed a prasad controversy in 2023

The donation theft case is not the first controversy involving the Ambaji temple in recent years. In April 2023, the temple administration faced criticism after the traditional mohanthal prasad was replaced with chikki.

The decision sparked protests and the controversy continued for more than 10 days. Questions were raised over the reduction in the preparation of mohanthal.

The Gujarat government later intervened and announced that both mohanthal and chikki would continue to be offered as prasad at the temple.