Ayodhya : A three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged theft and misuse of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple has uncovered serious irregularities at multiple levels. The SIT, formed by the Uttar Pradesh government on June 13, found that the State Bank of India (SBI), which handles the banking operations for the Ram Temple Trust, was responsible for sorting, stacking, and counting the currency notes received as offerings.
The SIT has also examined the hiring process and alleged irregularities in staff appointments. Sources said Anukul Mishra, who was employed at the Ram Temple Trust, had appointed his brother-in-law Lavkush Mishra for the cash-counting work. Although uniforms had been issued and a dress code was established, it was reportedly not followed. CCTV monitoring also came under scrutiny during the investigation. The sources claimed that employees could allegedly stand in front of cameras before carrying out thefts, indicating lapses in surveillance and monitoring.
The surge in visitors and donations has become a key focus area for investigators. The SIT has been sending daily updates of its findings to the Chief Minister’s Office, with investigation records being maintained digitally. Officials said any manipulation carried out in the past 45 days may still leave technical traces and can be detected through forensic scrutiny. Sources said investigators have found several contradictions in temple workers’ testimonies.
Sources said investigators have found several contradictions in temple workers’ testimonies. The probe was launched after Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav alleged theft of donation funds. The trust has maintained that internal audits are underway and that no evidence supporting the allegations has been found so far.
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