Champat Rai, the general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, has stepped down from his position following allegations that donations made by devotees to the Ram temple were stolen or misappropriated. Sources said Rai decided to resign to ensure that the investigation into the matter could proceed without any concerns about his influence.
A person close to Rai said that stepping aside was appropriate when such allegations were under investigation, as it would help maintain the credibility of a fair and impartial probe. An FIR has also been registered in connection with the case.
The Indian Express had reported that an audit conducted in 2020, shortly after the formation of the trust, had raised concerns over what it described as highly unprofessional functioning within the organisation. The audit had suggested several corrective measures, but sources said those recommendations had not been implemented even years later.
The controversy emerged after allegations of financial irregularities involving temple donations came to light. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted its preliminary report to the Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday. Although Rai has not been accused of any wrongdoing, sources said he chose to leave his post on ethical grounds and to avoid any possibility of allegations that he could affect the investigation.
Police in Ayodhya have registered an FIR against eight people based on a complaint alleging theft, misappropriation of cash, and the illegal handling of money and valuables donated to the Ram temple. Those named in the FIR are Avinash Shukla, Lavkush Mishra, Anukalp Mishra, Manish Kumar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey, Ramashankar Mishra, Ram Shankar Yadav, also known as Tinnu Yadav, and Subhash Srivastav.
Officials said Tinnu Yadav, who previously worked as Rai’s driver, had been involved in internal temple operations since the idol consecration ceremony in 2022.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said his government was committed to uncovering the truth in the donation theft case. He urged those making allegations to provide evidence to the SIT and cautioned against making claims without proof, saying that the faith of devotees should not be targeted.
The chief minister also criticised opposition parties, alleging that some leaders had previously questioned the existence of Lord Ram and opposed the Ram Janmabhoomi movement through legal challenges. He said the investigation would reveal the facts of the matter.