Champat Rai, who resigned as general secretary of the trust managing the Ayodhya Ram Temple amid allegations of donation irregularities, has said the temple construction committee led by Nripendra Misra took key decisions related to the project and appointed people to assist with its work.&nbsp;In a nine-page open letter, the former trust general secretary detailed developments following the Supreme Court's 2019 verdict on the Ram Temple construction. He claimed that Misra brought people of his choice into the construction committee and personally handled major decisions.<h2>Misra-led panel had final say, letter claims</h2>"Nripendra Mishra brought in persons of his choice in the Construction Committee for his help, one of whom came to Ayodhya one or two times in the past six years…. Nripendra Mishra always took all the decisions by himself," the letter said.&nbsp;The former general secretary also said the committee had complete authority over the construction process and that no work could proceed without its approval.&nbsp;"If any decision was taken outside, it was not accepted. If something was done, it was removed," he said in the letter.&nbsp;He further claimed that Misra decided which company would undertake the construction work and selected the temple's designer. He also alleged that suggestions from other members were often ignored. "Many a time the suggestions of others were not given any importance," he claimed.&nbsp;Rai resigned from his post following a backlash over allegations of fund theft. However, a Special Investigation Team formed by the state government gave him a clean chit in its probe into the allegations.&nbsp;The letter came days after an SIT report into alleged irregularities in Ram Temple collections flagged "gross lapses" in the functioning of the trust. The report, however, exonerated Rai and a former trustee.A separate SIT formed on the Supreme Court's direction was still investigating the matter, according to the information provided.<h2>Misra rejects reports of internal rift</h2>Nripendra Misra, however, rejected reports of an internal dispute linked to the purported letter. Speaking to reporters on Friday after a three-day review meeting, he described the claims as baseless and also discussed the final phase of temple construction.&nbsp;"I have not seen any such letter. Until I see the letter, I will only tell you that this is a concocted story of yours (media). There is no such letter, nor is there any such criticism, even if it were 9 pages long; he has not made any such criticism. This is merely a made-up story by you (media) people."

Champat Rai has claimed that the Nripendra Misra-led construction committee took all key decisions on the Ram Temple project, while Misra dismissed reports of an internal rift as baseless.

Champat Rai, who resigned as general secretary of the trust managing the Ayodhya Ram Temple amid allegations of donation irregularities, has said the temple construction committee led by Nripendra Misra took key decisions related to the project and appointed people to assist with its work. In a nine-page open letter, the former trust general secretary detailed developments following the Supreme Court's 2019 verdict on the Ram Temple construction. He claimed that Misra brought people of his choice into the construction committee and personally handled major decisions. Misra-led panel had final say, letter claims "Nripendra Mishra brought in persons of his choice in the Construction Committee for his help, one of whom came to Ayodhya one or two times in the past six years…. Nripendra Mishra always took all the decisions by himself," the letter said. The former general secretary also said the committee had complete authority over the construction process and that no work could proceed without its approval. "If any decision was taken outside, it was not accepted. If something was done, it was removed," he said in the letter. He further claimed that Misra decided which company would undertake the construction work and selected the temple's designer. He also alleged that suggestions from other members were often ignored. "Many a time the suggestions of others were not given any importance," he claimed. Rai resigned from his post following a backlash over allegations of fund theft. However, a Special Investigation Team formed by the state government gave him a clean chit in its probe into the allegations. The letter came days after an SIT report into alleged irregularities in Ram Temple collections flagged "gross lapses" in the functioning of the trust. The report, however, exonerated Rai and a former trustee. A separate SIT formed on the Supreme Court's direction was still investigating the matter, according to the information provided. Misra rejects reports of internal rift Nripendra Misra, however, rejected reports of an internal dispute linked to the purported letter. Speaking to reporters on Friday after a three-day review meeting, he described the claims as baseless and also discussed the final phase of temple construction. "I have not seen any such letter. Until I see the letter, I will only tell you that this is a concocted story of yours (media). There is no such letter, nor is there any such criticism, even if it were 9 pages long; he has not made any such criticism. This is merely a made-up story by you (media) people."

Champat Rai has claimed that the Nripendra Misra-led construction committee took all key decisions on the Ram Temple project, while Misra dismissed reports of an internal rift as baseless.

Nripendra Misra-led panel took all key decisions: Champat Rai amid Ram Temple donation row

Krishna Mohan, a trustee, was on Monday appointed as the interim general secretary of the Shri Ram Janma Bhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in place of Champat Rai, who had resigned after donation theft came to light at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Krishna Mohan, an RSS office-bearer and a former Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, was appointed member of the Shri Ram Janma Bhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;Addressing the media after the meeting, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust treasurer Govind Dev Giri said, “We are all hurt and saddened by this. The magnitude of the theft—whether small or large—is a secondary concern; we are primarily distressed by the very fact that such an atmosphere was allowed to develop here. However, the reality is before us, and it is our duty to reflect upon it.”&nbsp;“Given the prevailing circumstances, a critical situation arose: our General Secretary, Champat Rai, and Trustee Anil Ji Mishra submitted their resignations. Champat Rai was deeply pained, and he felt it inappropriate to continue in his role until justice is fully served—meaning the culprits are apprehended and receive appropriate punishment,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-trust-accepts-champat-rai-s-resignation-amid-donation-theft-row-1783337685426">Ram Temple Trust accepts Champat Rai’s resignation amid donation theft row</a>&nbsp;K. Parasaran raised a significant point that under the Trust’s constitution, a resignation is deemed accepted the moment it is submitted, Swami Govind Dev Giri said.&nbsp;<h2>Champat Rai’s only mistake was placing excessive trust in those close to him</h2>&nbsp;The trust treasurer said Champat Rai’s only mistake was placing excessive trust in those close to him.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We hold him in the highest regard. It is unfathomable how he could keep such wrongdoers by his side for so many years and fail to detect the conspiracies they were hatching. In my view, he remains untainted. He is not a criminal, though he did commit an error of negligence,” Giri added.&nbsp;A three-member committee has been appointed to present names. The committee comprises retired Justice Pradeep Kohli, retired Lieutenant General Vishnukant Chaturvedi, and Suresh ji Havare, who successfully managed the Shirdi institution for 10 years, Swamiji said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-are-all-extremely-pained-and-angered-rss-says-ram-temple-trust-must-rectify-all-shortcomings-1783074551640">‘We are all extremely pained and angered’: RSS says Ram Temple trust must rectify all shortcomings</a>&nbsp;This three-member committee will interview various candidates and submit names to us, from which we will make the final selection, he added.&nbsp;He said the trust will meet again on 22 July, as the SIT’s final report will be available by then.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Over 2800 items as offerings, all of which are safe: Giri &nbsp;</h2>Giri further said that allegations are being made that various offerings vanished without a trace.&nbsp;“We wish to inform you that we possess a register listing 2800 such items, and all of them are safe,” he added.&nbsp;The trust also displayed five specific items that have been the subject of discussion to the mediapersons from news agencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-refuses-urgent-hearing-of-ram-temple-petitions-saying-heavens-are-not-going-to-fall-1782739148242">Supreme Court refuses urgent hearing of Ram Temple petitions, saying, 'Heavens are not going to fall’</a>&nbsp;Addressing the media, Krishna Mohan said, “I have been entrusted with the responsibility of discharging the duties of general secretary in an acting capacity until a new general secretary is appointed. We are all deeply pained by the events that have transpired; everyone has suffered, including the devotees of Ram.”&nbsp;<h2>Shortcomings were exploited: Krishna Mohan</h2>&nbsp;“There were certain shortcomings in management and operations that were exploited by others. Therefore, my primary endeavour will be to plug these loopholes and rectify errors. I will make every effort to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The prevailing atmosphere has somewhat tarnished the image of our Trust, giving rise to a sense of mistrust within society. We will take all necessary steps to dispel this negative perception and rebuild trust within the community,” Krishna Mohan added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-ram-temple-donation-controversy-timeline-allegations-and-investigation-1782300937489">Ram temple donation controversy: Timeline, allegations and investigation</a>&nbsp;Mohan, who hails from the Hardoi district, was the region in charge of the RSS for eastern Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;Mohan joined the Maharashtra cadre of the Indian Forest Service after completing an MSc in geology from Lucknow University.&nbsp;

A three-member committee comprising retired Justice Pradeep Kohli, retired Lieutenant General Vishnukant Chaturvedi, and Suresh ji Havare, who successfully managed the Shirdi institution for 10 years, will interview various candidates and submit names for general secretary.

Krishna Mohan, a trustee, was on Monday appointed as the interim general secretary of the Shri Ram Janma Bhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in place of Champat Rai, who had resigned after donation theft came to light at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Krishna Mohan, an RSS office-bearer and a former Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, was appointed member of the Shri Ram Janma Bhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in 2025. Addressing the media after the meeting, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust treasurer Govind Dev Giri said, “We are all hurt and saddened by this. The magnitude of the theft—whether small or large—is a secondary concern; we are primarily distressed by the very fact that such an atmosphere was allowed to develop here. However, the reality is before us, and it is our duty to reflect upon it.” “Given the prevailing circumstances, a critical situation arose: our General Secretary, Champat Rai, and Trustee Anil Ji Mishra submitted their resignations. Champat Rai was deeply pained, and he felt it inappropriate to continue in his role until justice is fully served—meaning the culprits are apprehended and receive appropriate punishment,” he added. Also Read: Ram Temple Trust accepts Champat Rai’s resignation amid donation theft row K. Parasaran raised a significant point that under the Trust’s constitution, a resignation is deemed accepted the moment it is submitted, Swami Govind Dev Giri said. Champat Rai’s only mistake was placing excessive trust in those close to him The trust treasurer said Champat Rai’s only mistake was placing excessive trust in those close to him. “We hold him in the highest regard. It is unfathomable how he could keep such wrongdoers by his side for so many years and fail to detect the conspiracies they were hatching. In my view, he remains untainted. He is not a criminal, though he did commit an error of negligence,” Giri added. A three-member committee has been appointed to present names. The committee comprises retired Justice Pradeep Kohli, retired Lieutenant General Vishnukant Chaturvedi, and Suresh ji Havare, who successfully managed the Shirdi institution for 10 years, Swamiji said. Also Read: ‘We are all extremely pained and angered’: RSS says Ram Temple trust must rectify all shortcomings This three-member committee will interview various candidates and submit names to us, from which we will make the final selection, he added. He said the trust will meet again on 22 July, as the SIT’s final report will be available by then. Over 2800 items as offerings, all of which are safe: Giri Giri further said that allegations are being made that various offerings vanished without a trace. “We wish to inform you that we possess a register listing 2800 such items, and all of them are safe,” he added. The trust also displayed five specific items that have been the subject of discussion to the mediapersons from news agencies. Also Read: Supreme Court refuses urgent hearing of Ram Temple petitions, saying, 'Heavens are not going to fall’ Addressing the media, Krishna Mohan said, “I have been entrusted with the responsibility of discharging the duties of general secretary in an acting capacity until a new general secretary is appointed. We are all deeply pained by the events that have transpired; everyone has suffered, including the devotees of Ram.” Shortcomings were exploited: Krishna Mohan “There were certain shortcomings in management and operations that were exploited by others. Therefore, my primary endeavour will be to plug these loopholes and rectify errors. I will make every effort to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future,” he added. “The prevailing atmosphere has somewhat tarnished the image of our Trust, giving rise to a sense of mistrust within society. We will take all necessary steps to dispel this negative perception and rebuild trust within the community,” Krishna Mohan added. Also Read: Ram temple donation controversy: Timeline, allegations and investigation Mohan, who hails from the Hardoi district, was the region in charge of the RSS for eastern Uttar Pradesh. Mohan joined the Maharashtra cadre of the Indian Forest Service after completing an MSc in geology from Lucknow University.

A three-member committee comprising retired Justice Pradeep Kohli, retired Lieutenant General Vishnukant Chaturvedi, and Suresh ji Havare, who successfully managed the Shirdi institution for 10 years, will interview various candidates and submit names for general secretary.

Ram Temple Trust appoints Krishna Mohan as acting general secretary after Champat Rai’s resignation

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has accepted the resignation of Champat Rai as general secretary after the massive controversy over theft of the donations offered by devotees to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The resignation of Anil Mishra as trustee has also been accepted by the trust.Both decisions of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust were unanimous, while Champat Rai and Anil Mishra stayed away from the meeting held within the temple premises on Monday.&nbsp;However, sources indicated that Champat Rai may continue as a trustee unless he chooses otherwise.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-are-all-extremely-pained-and-angered-rss-says-ram-temple-trust-must-rectify-all-shortcomings-1783074551640">‘We are all extremely pained and angered’: RSS says Ram Temple trust must rectify all shortcomings</a>&nbsp;The leadership change comes at a time when the Trust is under scrutiny following the alleged irregularities in temple donations, with police and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) continuing their probe into the matter.&nbsp;The trust’s meeting was held at the guest house inside the temple premises. The trust expressed confidence in the investigation being conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Yogi Adityanath government earlier.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-refuses-urgent-hearing-of-ram-temple-petitions-saying-heavens-are-not-going-to-fall-1782739148242">Supreme Court refuses urgent hearing of Ram Temple petitions, saying, 'Heavens are not going to fall’</a>&nbsp;Champat Rai has been at the centre of the controversy since his former driver and close aide Ramashankar Yadav, alias Tinnu Yadav, is among the eight people arrested by the UP Police.&nbsp;Both Rai and Mishra have been grilled by the SIT and the Ayodhya Police, but no first information report (FIR) has been registered against them as of now.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-ram-temple-donation-controversy-timeline-allegations-and-investigation-1782300937489">Ram temple donation controversy: Timeline, allegations and investigation</a>&nbsp;The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust had preponed its crucial executive committee meeting from July 11 to July 6 in the wake of the controversy and after trust general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra handed over their resignations after the Ram Temple donation misappropriation case came to light. Trust’s treasurer Govind Dev Giri had said that the meeting had been advanced because several important matters required immediate discussion.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, the temple trust president Nritya Gopal Das said that he was deeply pained by the alleged theft of offerings but expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath would ensure appropriate action.&nbsp;&nbsp;The trust president also urged people not to politicise the issue. “I am deeply hurt by the theft that took place at the temple of Shree Ram Lalaji. Whoever has committed this sin should receive the strictest possible punishment. I have faith in Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ji and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji that they will ensure every person who is involved in this sin is punished. This is a matter of faith for crores of Hindus, and I request that no one should indulge in politics over it for their personal gain,” Das said&nbsp;&nbsp;

The change of leadership in Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust comes at a time after the trust came under scrutiny following the alleged irregularities and misappropriation of donations made to the temple. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) and police are continuing their probe.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has accepted the resignation of Champat Rai as general secretary after the massive controversy over theft of the donations offered by devotees to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The resignation of Anil Mishra as trustee has also been accepted by the trust. Both decisions of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust were unanimous, while Champat Rai and Anil Mishra stayed away from the meeting held within the temple premises on Monday. However, sources indicated that Champat Rai may continue as a trustee unless he chooses otherwise. Also Read: ‘We are all extremely pained and angered’: RSS says Ram Temple trust must rectify all shortcomings The leadership change comes at a time when the Trust is under scrutiny following the alleged irregularities in temple donations, with police and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) continuing their probe into the matter. The trust’s meeting was held at the guest house inside the temple premises. The trust expressed confidence in the investigation being conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Yogi Adityanath government earlier. Also Read: Supreme Court refuses urgent hearing of Ram Temple petitions, saying, 'Heavens are not going to fall’ Champat Rai has been at the centre of the controversy since his former driver and close aide Ramashankar Yadav, alias Tinnu Yadav, is among the eight people arrested by the UP Police. Both Rai and Mishra have been grilled by the SIT and the Ayodhya Police, but no first information report (FIR) has been registered against them as of now. Also Read: Ram temple donation controversy: Timeline, allegations and investigation The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust had preponed its crucial executive committee meeting from July 11 to July 6 in the wake of the controversy and after trust general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra handed over their resignations after the Ram Temple donation misappropriation case came to light. Trust’s treasurer Govind Dev Giri had said that the meeting had been advanced because several important matters required immediate discussion. Earlier in the day, the temple trust president Nritya Gopal Das said that he was deeply pained by the alleged theft of offerings but expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath would ensure appropriate action. The trust president also urged people not to politicise the issue. “I am deeply hurt by the theft that took place at the temple of Shree Ram Lalaji. Whoever has committed this sin should receive the strictest possible punishment. I have faith in Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ji and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji that they will ensure every person who is involved in this sin is punished. This is a matter of faith for crores of Hindus, and I request that no one should indulge in politics over it for their personal gain,” Das said

The change of leadership in Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust comes at a time after the trust came under scrutiny following the alleged irregularities and misappropriation of donations made to the temple. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) and police are continuing their probe.

Ram Temple Trust accepts Champat Rai’s resignation amid donation theft row

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has preponed its crucial executive committee meeting from July 11 to July 6 and is most likely to decide the fate of trust general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, who have handed over their resignations after the Ram Temple donation misappropriation case came to light.&nbsp;The Trust, headed by Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, the 87-year-old saint from Ayodhya, has asked all its 14 members to remain available for the July 6 meeting.&nbsp;The development follows the questioning of Champat Rai by the investigating officer on Monday.&nbsp;During the interrogation, Rai is reported to have denied any wrongdoing and said he was unaware of several aspects of the alleged irregularities. On matters related to the Trust’s internal functioning, he reportedly referred investigators to other members.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ethanol-blending-is-ongoing-experiment-impact-to-be-known-by-next-year-govt-tells-sc-1782819413430">Ethanol blending is ongoing experiment, impact to be known by next year: Govt tells SC</a>&nbsp;Police also recorded the statement of Trust member Krishna Mohan, who is also the complainant in the case.&nbsp;<h2>‘Several important matters required immediate discussion’</h2>&nbsp;In a communication sent to members, the trust’s treasurer Govind Dev Giri said the meeting had been advanced because several important matters required immediate discussion.The opposition leaders are targeting the BJP, RSS and the temple trust over the alleged embezzlement of donations worth several lakhs of rupees, though the investigators have not yet shared any figures so far. The donation theft has shaken the faith of devotees.&nbsp;&nbsp;The key issues that may be discussed in the meeting include the likely reorganisation of its day-to-day functioning and strengthening oversight mechanisms to improve transparency.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yasin-malik-faces-trial-in-sarla-bhat-rape-murder-case-35-years-after-brutal-crime-instilled-fear-in-kashmiri-pandits-triggered-exodus-1782752930044">Yasin Malik faces trial in Sarla Bhat rape-murder case 35 years after brutal crime instilled fear in Kashmiri Pandits</a>&nbsp;The Trust may also dwell upon adding more layers in its administrative structure after concerns were raised over the way of functioning as a handful of trust office-bearers were running the show with complete authority over all the internal matters and no record or documents were shared with others.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Trust’s last meeting was held on March 21, when preparations for Ram Navami celebrations were discussed. Meetings of the trust are held every three months.&nbsp;On June 27, Govind Dev Giri had confirmed that both Champat Rai and Anil Mishra had submitted their resignations.&nbsp;Rai and Mishra submitted their resignations on June 26 while taking moral responsibility after an FIR was registered in the case naming eight accused and several unidentified people.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-biz-honchos-accompanying-japan-s-pm-to-delhi-eager-to-ride-on-india-s-growth-story-1782768835501">50 biz honchos accompanying Japan’s PM to Delhi, eager to ride on India’s growth story</a><h2>SIT widens its probe, looking into land purchases&nbsp;</h2>The meeting comes even as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing the donation theft and is examining the role of trust office-bearers, banking officials and digital transactions linked to temple donations.&nbsp;After the arrest of eight accused, the SIT is also scrutinising office-bearers of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and officials of the State Bank of India associated with temple accounts besides examining the role of temple employees.&nbsp;The SIT is also looking into the land purchases made by the Trust and procurement of construction materials.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starmer-announces-extra-15bn-for-defence-says-road-and-energy-projects-to-be-scrapped-for-funds-1782827331880">Starmer announces extra £15bn for defence, says road and energy projects to be scrapped for funds</a><h2>Bank accounts, digital trail being scrutinised</h2>&nbsp;The investigation has brought the Bank of Baroda’s Ayodhya branch under scrutiny after police served it a notice seeking account details linked to the case.The bank clarified that its role is limited to facilitating online QR-based donations and that it has no involvement in collecting, counting or managing physical offerings made at the Ram Temple.&nbsp;The investigators are also analysing UPI transactions, expenditure patterns and fund movements to determine whether digital payment records reveal any suspicious financial activity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust’s general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra submitted their resignations on June 26 while taking moral responsibility after an FIR was registered in the case naming eight accused and several unidentified people. 

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has preponed its crucial executive committee meeting from July 11 to July 6 and is most likely to decide the fate of trust general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, who have handed over their resignations after the Ram Temple donation misappropriation case came to light. The Trust, headed by Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, the 87-year-old saint from Ayodhya, has asked all its 14 members to remain available for the July 6 meeting. The development follows the questioning of Champat Rai by the investigating officer on Monday. During the interrogation, Rai is reported to have denied any wrongdoing and said he was unaware of several aspects of the alleged irregularities. On matters related to the Trust’s internal functioning, he reportedly referred investigators to other members. Also Read: Ethanol blending is ongoing experiment, impact to be known by next year: Govt tells SC Police also recorded the statement of Trust member Krishna Mohan, who is also the complainant in the case. ‘Several important matters required immediate discussion’ In a communication sent to members, the trust’s treasurer Govind Dev Giri said the meeting had been advanced because several important matters required immediate discussion. The opposition leaders are targeting the BJP, RSS and the temple trust over the alleged embezzlement of donations worth several lakhs of rupees, though the investigators have not yet shared any figures so far. The donation theft has shaken the faith of devotees. The key issues that may be discussed in the meeting include the likely reorganisation of its day-to-day functioning and strengthening oversight mechanisms to improve transparency. Also Read: Yasin Malik faces trial in Sarla Bhat rape-murder case 35 years after brutal crime instilled fear in Kashmiri Pandits The Trust may also dwell upon adding more layers in its administrative structure after concerns were raised over the way of functioning as a handful of trust office-bearers were running the show with complete authority over all the internal matters and no record or documents were shared with others. The Trust’s last meeting was held on March 21, when preparations for Ram Navami celebrations were discussed. Meetings of the trust are held every three months. On June 27, Govind Dev Giri had confirmed that both Champat Rai and Anil Mishra had submitted their resignations. Rai and Mishra submitted their resignations on June 26 while taking moral responsibility after an FIR was registered in the case naming eight accused and several unidentified people. Also Read: 50 biz honchos accompanying Japan’s PM to Delhi, eager to ride on India’s growth story SIT widens its probe, looking into land purchases The meeting comes even as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing the donation theft and is examining the role of trust office-bearers, banking officials and digital transactions linked to temple donations. After the arrest of eight accused, the SIT is also scrutinising office-bearers of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and officials of the State Bank of India associated with temple accounts besides examining the role of temple employees. The SIT is also looking into the land purchases made by the Trust and procurement of construction materials. Also Read: Starmer announces extra £15bn for defence, says road and energy projects to be scrapped for funds Bank accounts, digital trail being scrutinised The investigation has brought the Bank of Baroda’s Ayodhya branch under scrutiny after police served it a notice seeking account details linked to the case. The bank clarified that its role is limited to facilitating online QR-based donations and that it has no involvement in collecting, counting or managing physical offerings made at the Ram Temple. The investigators are also analysing UPI transactions, expenditure patterns and fund movements to determine whether digital payment records reveal any suspicious financial activity.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust’s general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra submitted their resignations on June 26 while taking moral responsibility after an FIR was registered in the case naming eight accused and several unidentified people.&nbsp;

Ram Temple Trust prepones key meeting to July 6 as Champat Rai’s future hangs in balance after donation theft row

As the probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya continues, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Monday (Jun 29) questioned former Trust chief Champat Rai for over three hours and recorded his statement. Rai has denied any involvement in the alleged donation theft. Trust member Anil Mishra was also questioned in the matter. Days earlier the two had resigned amid the constrovery involving irregularities in the handling of cash donations made by devotees at the temple, which holds immense significance as the revered birthplace of Lord Ram, a central deity in Hinduism.According to a PTI report, citing sources, Rai denied any involvement into the misappropriation of donation funds. He also told the investigators that he had not imagined employees entrusted with handling devotees’ offerings could be linked to such allegations.As part of the investigation, the police have issued notices to Trust members Anil Misra and Gopal Rao. The Trust is also preparing for an internal meeting scheduled for July 6, where it is expected to consider resignations submitted by Rai and Mishra.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-donation-theft-row-trust-confirms-resignation-of-champat-rai-1782618859422">Ram Temple donation theft row: Trust confirms resignation of Champat Rai</a><h2>VHP defends Rai</h2>Defending Rai, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has maintained that the Trust itself flagged irregularities and initiated corrective steps. VHP international president Alok Kumar said that an internal review revealed discrepancies, following which about Rs 80 lakh was recovered and a formal request was made to the Uttar Pradesh government to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT). It added that Rai fully cooperated with investigators.<h2>Ayodhya Bar Association refuses to represent accused</h2>The controversy has also triggered outrage from the legal bodies, with Faizabad Bar Association in Ayodhya announcing that none of its members would represent the accused named in the embezzlement case. It also warned to impose a Rs 5 lakh penalty on any lawyer violating the decision.The association has called for Champat Rai, Anil Mishra and Gopal Rao to leave Ayodhya within three days, warning of blockade in the city if they don’t.Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of India has deferred urgent hearing on a petition seeking a monitored probe, stating it will be taken up after reopening from vacation. The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier formed an SIT following the Trust’s request for investigation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-donation-theft-row-sit-findings-arrests-and-allegations-what-we-know-so-far-1782558176585">Ram Temple donation theft row: SIT findings, arrests and allegations – What we know so far</a><h2>Ram Temple row</h2>The investigation was launched after former SP MLA from Ayodhya, Pawan Pandey, alleged that donations worth Rs 7 crore to Rs 7.5 crore had been siphoned off from the Ram Mandir. Following the allegations, the Uttar Pradesh government set up a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) on June 14 at the request of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The formal complaint was registered after the findings and suggestions in the preliminary report of the SIT.In the FIR, eight people were named, including Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Manish Yadav, Rajesh Pathak, Ramashankar Yadav (Tinnu Yadav), Avinash Shukla, Karunesh Pandey, Subhash Srivastava, and other unidentified persons. All eight were taken into police custody and were being questioned.

SIT questioned Champat Rai and Anil Mishra in Ayodhya Ram Temple donation probe. Rai denied involvement in alleged irregularities as notices were issued to other Trust members.

As the probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya continues, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Monday (Jun 29) questioned former Trust chief Champat Rai for over three hours and recorded his statement. Rai has denied any involvement in the alleged donation theft. Trust member Anil Mishra was also questioned in the matter. Days earlier the two had resigned amid the constrovery involving irregularities in the handling of cash donations made by devotees at the temple, which holds immense significance as the revered birthplace of Lord Ram, a central deity in Hinduism. According to a PTI report, citing sources, Rai denied any involvement into the misappropriation of donation funds. He also told the investigators that he had not imagined employees entrusted with handling devotees’ offerings could be linked to such allegations. As part of the investigation, the police have issued notices to Trust members Anil Misra and Gopal Rao. The Trust is also preparing for an internal meeting scheduled for July 6, where it is expected to consider resignations submitted by Rai and Mishra. Also read | Ram Temple donation theft row: Trust confirms resignation of Champat Rai VHP defends Rai Defending Rai, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has maintained that the Trust itself flagged irregularities and initiated corrective steps. VHP international president Alok Kumar said that an internal review revealed discrepancies, following which about Rs 80 lakh was recovered and a formal request was made to the Uttar Pradesh government to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT). It added that Rai fully cooperated with investigators. Ayodhya Bar Association refuses to represent accused The controversy has also triggered outrage from the legal bodies, with Faizabad Bar Association in Ayodhya announcing that none of its members would represent the accused named in the embezzlement case. It also warned to impose a Rs 5 lakh penalty on any lawyer violating the decision. The association has called for Champat Rai, Anil Mishra and Gopal Rao to leave Ayodhya within three days, warning of blockade in the city if they don’t. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of India has deferred urgent hearing on a petition seeking a monitored probe, stating it will be taken up after reopening from vacation. The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier formed an SIT following the Trust’s request for investigation. Also read | Ram Temple donation theft row: SIT findings, arrests and allegations – What we know so far Ram Temple row The investigation was launched after former SP MLA from Ayodhya, Pawan Pandey, alleged that donations worth Rs 7 crore to Rs 7.5 crore had been siphoned off from the Ram Mandir. Following the allegations, the Uttar Pradesh government set up a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) on June 14 at the request of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The formal complaint was registered after the findings and suggestions in the preliminary report of the SIT. In the FIR, eight people were named, including Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Manish Yadav, Rajesh Pathak, Ramashankar Yadav (Tinnu Yadav), Avinash Shukla, Karunesh Pandey, Subhash Srivastava, and other unidentified persons. All eight were taken into police custody and were being questioned.

SIT questioned Champat Rai and Anil Mishra in Ayodhya Ram Temple donation probe. Rai denied involvement in alleged irregularities as notices were issued to other Trust members.

Ram Temple donation theft row: Champat Rai grilled by SIT for over three hours

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and Trust member Anil Mishra resigned from their positions on Friday &nbsp;amid an ongoing probe into the alleged misappropriation of donations collected at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. This comes a day after eight people were arrested following an FIR linked to the alleged embezzlement of temple donations.&nbsp;The alleged misappropriation of donations was first reported by former Samajwadi Party MLA from Ayodhya, Pawan Pandey, who claimed that donations worth Rs 7 crore to Rs 7.5 crore had been siphoned off from the Ram Mandir.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/94-year-old-woman-who-returned-from-us-in-2018-wants-india-to-restore-her-citizenship-here-s-why-1782452293876">94-year old woman who returned from US in 2018 wants India to restore her citizenship: Here's why</a>&nbsp;Soon an investigation was launched by the Uttar Pradesh government and a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed on June 14 at the request of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.&nbsp;An FIR was registered after the findings and suggestions in the preliminary report of the SIT.&nbsp;<h2>Who is Champat Rai?</h2>&nbsp;So, who is Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust General Secretary Champat Rai, responsible for overseeing the temple funds?&nbsp;Rai has been among the key faces associated with the Ram temple movement. Born in 1946 in Uttar Pradesh's Bijnor, he was a Chemistry teacher at the RSM Degree College in Bijnor but later quit his job to join the Ram temple movement.&nbsp;Rai was associated with the Ram Janmabhoomi movement since the construction phase of the temple. He played an important role in temple organisational work, trust administration and public communication.&nbsp;Later, Rai was made General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra constituted in 2020 to oversee the construction and management of the Ram temple in Ayodhya after the Supreme Court verdict in the Ayodhya dispute.&nbsp;He was also associated with the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and served as a senior office-bearer within the organisation.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The alleged misappropriation of donations was first reported by former Samajwadi Party MLA from Ayodhya, Pawan Pandey, who claimed that donations worth close to Rs 7.5 crore had been siphoned off from the Ram Mandir.

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and Trust member Anil Mishra resigned from their positions on Friday amid an ongoing probe into the alleged misappropriation of donations collected at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. This comes a day after eight people were arrested following an FIR linked to the alleged embezzlement of temple donations. The alleged misappropriation of donations was first reported by former Samajwadi Party MLA from Ayodhya, Pawan Pandey, who claimed that donations worth Rs 7 crore to Rs 7.5 crore had been siphoned off from the Ram Mandir. ALSO READ: 94-year old woman who returned from US in 2018 wants India to restore her citizenship: Here's why Soon an investigation was launched by the Uttar Pradesh government and a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed on June 14 at the request of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. An FIR was registered after the findings and suggestions in the preliminary report of the SIT. Who is Champat Rai? So, who is Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust General Secretary Champat Rai, responsible for overseeing the temple funds? Rai has been among the key faces associated with the Ram temple movement. Born in 1946 in Uttar Pradesh's Bijnor, he was a Chemistry teacher at the RSM Degree College in Bijnor but later quit his job to join the Ram temple movement. Rai was associated with the Ram Janmabhoomi movement since the construction phase of the temple. He played an important role in temple organisational work, trust administration and public communication. Later, Rai was made General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra constituted in 2020 to oversee the construction and management of the Ram temple in Ayodhya after the Supreme Court verdict in the Ayodhya dispute. He was also associated with the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and served as a senior office-bearer within the organisation.

The alleged misappropriation of donations was first reported by former Samajwadi Party MLA from Ayodhya, Pawan Pandey, who claimed that donations worth close to Rs 7.5 crore had been siphoned off from the Ram Mandir.

Who is Champat Rai, a VHP veteran, Ram Mandir trust chief who resigned in donation theft case?

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Ram Temple Trust prepones key meeting as Champat Rai’s future hangs in balance

Ram Temple donation theft row: Champat Rai grilled by SIT for over three hours

Who is Ram Mandir trust chief Champat Rai who quit in donation theft case?