Two years after the consecration of the Ram Mandir, Ayodhya is once again at the centre of a controversy. This time over allegations that devotees’ offerings and donations were stolen.
The amount allegedly siphoned off remains disputed, with figures ranging from crores to thousands of crores. But before the truth can be established, there must be a formal investigation. And that would ordinarily begin with an FIR. So far, no FIR has been registered.
As questions mounted, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust recommended the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the allegations. The SIT has since submitted its preliminary report, but its findings have not been made public.
Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has urged restraint, warning against statements that could hurt the sentiments of Ram devotees. He has asked anyone with evidence to submit it directly to the SIT and said the probe would establish the facts.
Many in Ayodhya, however, remain unconvinced.
“If even one rupee has been stolen, it is wrong. Here, people are talking about thousands of crores. The moment someone raises questions, they are asked why they are talking about the theft. We are certain the real culprits will escape while only small people will be punished,” says local resident Abhishek Pathak.
Hanumangarhi Mahant Dharam Das says the allegations have brought shame upon Hindu society. Samajwadi Party leader and former minister Pawan Pandey, who first raised the issue publicly, alleges that the SIT was constituted not to uncover the truth but to cool the controversy.
Several names have surfaced in connection with the allegations, including Champat Rai, general secretary of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Others named are either associated with the RSS or were involved in handling and counting temple donations.
So how did this alleged diversion of donations happen? Who knew about it? And why has there still been no FIR?
Watch Basant Kumar's special ground report from Ayodhya.
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