Leaked Statement in Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Probe Shifts Focus to Senior Trust Member

A purported confidential written statement submitted by Ram Temple Trust General Secretary Champat Rai to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged theft of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple has surfaced, with the contents appearing to distance him from the management of donation collections and shifting attention towards another senior trust member.

The alleged leak has intensified the controversy surrounding the probe and brought renewed scrutiny to the administrative handling of temple donations.

Champat Rai distances himself from donation process

According to the purported leaked statement, Champat Rai told the SIT that he had no role in counting cash collected from donation boxes, ensuring its security, transporting it to the bank or decisions related to the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the bank.

He is also reported to have stated that he was not a signatory to the banking agreement and had no knowledge of changes made to the cash-counting process, security arrangements or decisions taken with bank officials.

The authenticity of the leaked statement has not been independently verified.

Focus shifts to senior trust member

The reported statement has drawn attention to Anil Mishra, a senior member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, whose name has reportedly emerged as a signatory to the banking agreement referred to in the statement.

According to sources cited in the report, the SIT's preliminary findings have also raised questions regarding Mishra's role, and he has reportedly been issued a notice for questioning.

No official confirmation regarding the alleged notice has been issued by the SIT.

Champat Rai issues public response

Hours before the alleged confidential statement surfaced, Champat Rai posted an open letter on social media platform X addressing devotees.

Describing the allegations against him as baseless, he said he had lived as a full-time pracharak for the past 41 years and had been associated with the Ram Temple movement since 1991.

He said he would respond to every allegation with facts "at the appropriate time".

Also Read: Ayodhya Ram Temple Row: Champat Rai’s Resignation Accepted, New Gen Secy Appointed

Treasurer backs trust general secretary

Meanwhile, Trust Treasurer Govind Giri defended Champat Rai, saying his public life had remained unblemished.

He said there may have been administrative lapses in certain areas but maintained that Champat Rai should not be held personally responsible. Giri also praised Rai's contribution to the construction of the Ram Temple.

Separately, Mahant Dinendra Das of the Nirmohi Akhara said those entrusted with financial responsibility should have ensured proper oversight.

He added that the alleged theft involved property belonging to Lord Ram and that anyone found guilty should face legal action.

While speculation regarding the alleged theft of temple jewellery has largely subsided, attention remains focused on the SIT's final report into the alleged cash theft from the temple's donation boxes.