Ram Temple Donation Probe Takes New Twist As Accused’s Family Questions Investigation
The investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations collected at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has entered a new phase after the brother of one of the arrested accused claimed that his sibling was being unfairly blamed while influential individuals were escaping scrutiny.
The statement comes as investigators continue to examine the alleged irregularities in the handling of temple donations and prepare for further action in the high-profile case.
Family Alleges Wrongful Implication
Dinesh Yadav, brother of arrested accused Ramashankar Yadav, also known as Tinnu Yadav, claimed that his brother had maintained a clean record and had been associated with Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai for nearly two decades.
He alleged that his brother was being projected as the main accused despite not being the central figure in the alleged financial irregularities. Dinesh also maintained that the allegations against his brother were false and appealed for legal assistance, claiming that the family was facing difficulty in securing legal representation.
Trust Leadership Under Spotlight
The latest claims have surfaced ahead of an important meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, where members are expected to consider the resignations of General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra amid the ongoing controversy.
As part of the investigation, police have already recorded Champat Rai’s statement and are continuing to gather evidence related to the donation management process.
Investigation Expands
Investigators are also examining the role of nearly 400 private security personnel deployed at the temple complex. Officials are reviewing CCTV footage, security deployment records and duty rosters to determine whether established procedures for handling donation boxes were properly followed.
The probe is focused on identifying possible procedural lapses and establishing individual responsibilities.
How The Case Unfolded
The controversy began after Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav alleged irregularities in the handling of Ram Temple donations. The allegations were initially denied by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
Following the claims, the Uttar Pradesh government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on June 13 to conduct a detailed inquiry.
Based on the SIT’s preliminary findings, an FIR was registered on June 25, leading to the arrest of eight individuals associated with the donation counting process.
Cash Recovery And Ongoing Inquiry
Police have stated that the investigation resulted in the recovery of nearly Rs 80 lakh in cash along with foreign currency.
Investigators also alleged that Ramashankar Yadav, also known as Tinnu Yadav, who had earlier worked as a driver for Champat Rai, possessed keys to multiple donation boxes in violation of the prescribed procedures.
Authorities continue to examine evidence to determine whether the alleged irregularities involved a wider network and whether additional individuals may have played a role in the handling of temple donations.
