Fresh details have emerged in the alleged donation theft case linked to the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Reports suggest that the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust knew about the suspected theft before the matter became public.
According to sources, trust officials, accompanied by police, visited the home of one of the accused, Avinash Shukla, on June 5. Cash was reportedly recovered during the search. However, no formal police complaint was filed at that time. Sources also claim that the search was conducted without an FIR.
The case became public on June 7. This has raised questions about the delay in filing the official case. A CCTV clip has also surfaced. The video reportedly shows police taking Avinash Shukla into custody while he carried a black bag. Sources claim the bag contained the recovered cash. Officials have not confirmed the video or the claims.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has found several gaps in the handling of temple donations. The probe reportedly points to weak cash management, poor employee verification, and limited CCTV monitoring. The investigation is also looking into staff appointments, land deals, and temple-related purchases.
In this case, eight people have been arrested by the police. Raids were carried out at their homes, and the accused remain in judicial custody. Police are expected to seek their custody for further questioning.
The controversy has also sparked political reactions. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav questioned the delay in action. VHP leader Alok Kumar called for a fair and transparent investigation. He said anyone found guilty should face strict legal action.