Jeetendra Mishra appointed first CEO of Ram Mandir Trust

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has announced a major administrative overhaul, appointing retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra as its first Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Mishra, a former head of the Indian Air Force’s Western Air Command who led during Operation Sindoor, was selected from a pool of over 5,500 applicants.

Alongside Mishra’s appointment, the Trust elevated Swami Govind Dev Giri to General Secretary and appointed Mahesh Bhagchandka as Treasurer. Three new trustees—Mahesh Bhagchandka, Madan Mohan Pandey, and Dr. Nirmala Yadav—were also named to fill vacancies. The restructuring aims to professionalize the management of the temple complex, overseeing security, staff, and financial administration.

The appointment has drawn political debate. Opposition leaders from the Samajwadi Party and Congress have questioned the selection and raised concerns regarding unresolved allegations of donation theft within the Trust. Conversely, the BJP has defended the move, stating that a military background will bring necessary discipline and transparency to the institution.