The legal and administrative controversy surrounding the alleged Ram Temple donation embezzlement case has intensified in Ayodhya after the Faizabad Bar Association decided that none of its members will represent the eight individuals arrested in connection with the case.
Lawyers’ Body Announces Legal Boycott
In a resolution passed during its general body meeting on Monday, the Bar Association expressed strong dissatisfaction over the allegations involving misappropriation of donations made by devotees at the Ram Temple.
The association stated that its members will not appear as counsel for any of the accused in the case. It also warned that any lawyer violating the decision would face a penalty of ₹5 lakh, signalling a strict internal enforcement mechanism.
Demand for Action Against Trust-Linked Individuals
During the meeting, several members also raised demands related to senior individuals associated with the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, including Champat Rai, Anil Mishra and Gopal Rao.
Although none of them have been named as accused in the FIR, some lawyers reportedly demanded that they leave Ayodhya. The association warned that if they did not do so within three days, it could consider launching protests, including restricting movement and access to the city.
Eight Accused in Judicial Custody
The eight arrested individuals in the case include Avinash Shukla, Anukalp Mishra, Lav Kush Mishra, Manish Kumar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey, Ram Shankar Mishra, Subhash Srivastava, and Ramashankar alias Tinnu Yadav.
Investigators allege that all eight were involved in handling cash and valuables collected as temple donations and are accused of embezzling funds during the counting process. They are currently in judicial custody.
Investigators Expand Probe
As part of the ongoing investigation, police teams have conducted coordinated searches at the residences of all eight accused. Officials reportedly recovered documents, financial records and other materials that may help trace the alleged movement of funds.
Sources said statements of several individuals connected to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust have already been recorded, including former General Secretary Champat Rai. Other senior officials, including former trustee Anil Mishra, may also be questioned as the probe continues.
Investigation Deepens
With legal, administrative and investigative developments unfolding simultaneously, the case continues to expand in scope. Authorities are examining financial records and transaction trails to determine the extent of alleged irregularities linked to temple donations.
