A high-level investigation into alleged irregularities in donation handling at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has uncovered multiple administrative and security lapses, according to officials familiar with the findings. The three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT), constituted on June 13 by the Uttar Pradesh government, is probing alleged mismanagement and possible misappropriation of offerings made by devotees.
Early findings reportedly point to weaknesses across several operational areas, including cash handling systems, staff verification, surveillance monitoring, and movement of donations from temple premises to banking channels.
Cash Handling Process Under Scanner
Sources indicate that the SIT has scrutinised the entire chain of donation processing — from collection inside the temple to counting, storage, and transfer to bank accounts managed through the State Bank of India (SBI), which oversees financial operations for the Ram Temple Trust.
Investigators reportedly found that SBI had outsourced the sorting and counting of cash offerings to personnel engaged through a private security agency based in Varanasi.
However, it has emerged that workers from Ayodhya were allegedly deployed for cash counting duties, raising questions about recruitment procedures and oversight. These appointments were reportedly made on recommendations linked to individuals associated with the temple trust.
Allegations of Irregular Hiring Practices
The probe has also highlighted concerns over staff selection and internal recruitment practices.
Sources claim that an employee of the Ram Temple Trust allegedly facilitated the appointment of a close relative for cash-handling duties, prompting investigators to examine potential conflicts of interest and procedural violations in hiring processes.
Weak Entry Checks and Dress Code Violations
The SIT has reportedly found that security protocols at entry and exit points were not strictly enforced. There was allegedly no robust mechanism to track what employees carried in or out of sensitive areas.
In addition, despite the existence of a prescribed uniform policy, several employees involved in donation counting were allegedly working in regular clothing, indicating lapses in enforcement of internal guidelines.
CCTV Surveillance and Monitoring Concerns
Surveillance systems at the site have also come under scrutiny. According to sources, CCTV monitoring was not effectively utilised, with allegations that individuals could position themselves in blind spots before engaging in suspected irregular activities.
Investigators believe this reflects gaps in real-time monitoring and supervision within sensitive operational zones.
Discrepancies in Valuables and Inventory Records
The SIT has also examined records related to gold, silver, gemstones and other high-value offerings made by devotees.
Preliminary findings reportedly suggest inconsistencies in documentation and accounting of such items, with officials unable to provide clear explanations regarding storage and inventory management.
Inquiry Extends to High Footfall Period
The investigation has expanded to include the period of the Maha Kumbh (January–February 2025), when the temple witnessed a significant surge in daily visitors and donations, reportedly reaching nearly 10 lakh devotees on peak days.
Authorities are examining whether the operational pressure during this period contributed to systemic lapses or irregularities in donation management.
Daily Reporting to Chief Minister’s Office
According to officials, the SIT is submitting daily progress reports to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister’s Office, with all evidence being digitally documented.
The final report is expected to be submitted to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath after completion of the investigation.
Probe Expands to Land and Procurement Deals
Beyond donation handling, investigators are also reviewing related administrative matters, including alleged irregularities in land purchases by the temple trust and procurement of construction materials for ongoing development works.
