Ram Mandir Donation Theft Row: SIT Files Status Report In Supreme Court

The Uttar Pradesh government-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) has submitted its status report to the Supreme Court in a sealed cover as part of its probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations made at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The report was filed in compliance with the apex court’s direction seeking an update on the investigation.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, had directed the SIT to submit a progress report and details of its findings.

The court is hearing petitions seeking a court-monitored CBI probe into the alleged financial irregularities involving donations received by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Notices have also been

issued to the Centre, the Uttar Pradesh government and the Trust.

What Is The Case About?

The case stems from allegations that donations made by devotees at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya were misappropriated. Following the allegations, the Uttar Pradesh government constituted a three member SIT in June to investigate the matter.

Several petitioners later approached the Supreme Court seeking a court monitored CBI investigation, alleging financial irregularities in the handling of temple donations.

Development So Far

The SIT has submitted a preliminary report to the Uttar Pradesh government and sought additional time to complete its investigation. According to preliminary findings, investigators have identified multiple security and procedural lapses in the handling of temple donations, including alleged unauthorised access to donation boxes and weaknesses in the counting and monitoring process.

So far, eight people have been arrested in connection with the case. Among them, Ram Shankar Yadav alias Tinnu Yadav and Manish Yadav were recently granted 39-hour police custody for further interrogation, while the remaining accused continue to be in judicial custody. The SIT is also tracing the alleged diversion of cash and valuables and examining the role of those responsible for managing the donations.