Ram Mandir donation theft probe expands, former trust chief Champat Rai under scrutiny

India's special investigation team (SIT) has been ordered to audit the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust’s finances for the past five years after indications of irregularities in the handling of donation money for the Ram Mandir. The team received an additional two‑week extension, with a final report due by 15 July.

Police have questioned former trust secretary‑general Champat Rai and other senior trustees, including Dr. Anil Mishra and Gopal Rao, over alleged mis‑counting and diversion of gold, silver, diamonds and cash donations. Lawyers from the Ayodhya Bar Association have filed complaints demanding FIRs against the three officials and warned of protests if action is not taken.

Separately, a group of local saints announced a meeting on 5 July to call for disciplinary action against Rai and Mishra, adding religious pressure to the legal proceedings. A trust meeting scheduled for 6 July will consider possible resignations or removals, which require a two‑thirds majority of the remaining trustees.