The FIR, filed on behalf of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, names eight accused and follows a preliminary SIT probe into alleged theft of donation money
In a major development in the alleged Ram Temple donation theft case, an FIR has been lodged in Ayodhya against eight named accused following the recommendations of a preliminary probe conducted by a Special Investigation Team (SIT). The case has been registered on a complaint filed on behalf of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, with authorities now preparing for a wider crackdown and possible arrests in the coming days.
Sources said the FIR was filed after the Uttar Pradesh government directed strict action on the basis of the SIT’s findings into allegations of theft of donation money offered by devotees at the Ram Mandir.
FIR names 8 accused, others unidentified
According to sources, the FIR names eight people and also includes several unidentified accused. The complaint was filed by Krishna Mohan, a member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
The case pertains to the alleged theft of donation money from the temple premises. Investigators are relying on CCTV footage and other material collected during the preliminary inquiry to identify those involved and establish the extent of the alleged theft network.
CCTV footage forms basis of action
Sources said the FIR has been lodged against individuals who were allegedly seen stealing donation money in CCTV footage, as well as those suspected of helping them. Investigators are now examining the role of every person linked to the alleged racket, with more arrests expected as the probe progresses.
Officials believe the investigation could widen further as additional evidence is examined.
No FIR against Champat Rai, Anil Mishra
Sources clarified that senior trust members Champat Rai and Anil Mishra have not been named in the FIR. However, Tinnu Yadav, said to be a close associate of Champat Rai, may come under the scanner as the investigation moves forward.
There has been no official statement so far on imminent arrests.
Case registered under BNS provisions
The FIR has been filed under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Sections 306, 316(5), 317(4), 317(5) and 3(5), sources said.
Authorities are now carrying out a detailed probe to determine the scale of the alleged embezzlement and identify all those involved in the handling and alleged siphoning of temple donation funds.
SIT report prompted government action
The FIR comes after the SIT submitted its preliminary report into allegations of misappropriation of donation money collected from devotees visiting the Ram Temple.
Following the report, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is learnt to have directed officials to take immediate and strict action against those found responsible.
The case has drawn significant public attention given the scale of donations received at the Ram Temple from devotees across India and abroad. The investigation is expected to focus on establishing the full extent of the alleged theft and fixing accountability in the management of temple funds.
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