The search for the first full-time CEO of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has gone beyond administrative credentials, with shortlisted candidates reportedly questioned about their religious practices, dietary habits and personal lives during interviews in Ayodhya.

The 18 candidates shortlisted from more than 5,300 applications were asked whether they were practising Hindus, whether they consumed non-vegetarian food or alcohol, and how they followed Hindu traditions, according to sources familiar with the selection process.

The interviews began this week and are being held behind closed doors inside the Ram Mandir complex.

Religious practices part of the interview process

Sources said candidates were required to fill out a Google form seeking details about their administrative experience as well as their religious beliefs and personal background.

During the interviews, panel members reportedly asked questions such as whether candidates kept a shikha (tuft of hair), wore a janeu (sacred thread), followed a vegetarian diet, and abstained from alcohol.

Candidates were also questioned about their families, previous work experience, leadership style, crowd management during major religious events, and their understanding of the temple’s religious and social significance.

The interviews were aimed at assessing administrative ability, leadership skills, religious engagement and each candidate’s long-term vision for the temple.

CEO appointment follows donation controversy

The Trust is appointing a full-time CEO for the first time, with the position expected to oversee temple administration, facilities management and associated operations.

The decision comes after allegations of theft of cash, gold and other offerings by temple staff surfaced in June, leading to increased scrutiny of the Trust’s financial management.

According to reports, the Trust has laid down eligibility conditions that include being a practising Hindu, following Hindu traditions, being a strict vegetarian and a teetotaller. The age criterion for the post has reportedly been fixed between 50 and 70 years.

Selection panel and shortlisted candidates

The interviews are being conducted by a selection committee comprising former Justice Pramod Kohli, Lt Gen (retd) Vishnukant Chaturvedi, and scientist Suresh Haware, former chairman of the Shirdi Sai Baba Trust.

The first round of interviews began at 9 am, with sessions held in the morning and afternoon. Each candidate was interviewed for approximately 25 to 30 minutes.

Dr Krishna Mohan, the Trust’s interim general secretary, was also present during the interviews.

Among the shortlisted candidates are three former IAS officers, one retired IPS officer, and several former military and education officials, as per reports

According to a senior Trust functionary cited by PTI, all 18 shortlisted candidates reached Ayodhya on Monday and stayed at locations suggested by the Trust.

The final selection comes at a time when the Ram Mandir Trust is seeking to strengthen its administrative structure following the donation-related controversy and the resignation of three officials, including former general secretary Champat Rai.