Ram Temple Trust Replaces Leadership Amid Stolen Donation Allegations

Authorities at the grand temple to Hindu god Ram in the northern Indian city of Ayodhya announced a leadership overhaul after allegations that tens of millions of rupees received in donations were stolen.

The trust that manages the shrine accepted the resignation of general secretary Champat Rai and appointed a new interim official. A Special Investigation Team’s interim report led to arrests, and the trust has announced plans to close loopholes and rebuild credibility.

An image of the newly inaugurated temple front – where the ceremony took place in January 2024 – captures the significance of the site for millions of devotees.

In a press conference, trust treasurer Govind Dev Giri confirmed that Rai and another official resigned after police lodged a complaint on 25 June. He named retired forest officer Krishna Mohan – an RSS affiliate – as interim general secretary, and announced a new CEO post will be decided by a panel.

Giri also disclosed that the trust has collected 5.82 billion rupees (about $61 million) from devotees until 31 March 2026 and used 3.19 billion rupees for shrine upkeep. He emphasized the priority of closing loopholes to prevent future incidents and restore donor confidence.

The allegations were first raised by a former accounts supervisor who claimed he was dismissed for raising concerns. Opposition parties and petitions in the high court and Supreme Court called for a court‑monitored investigation.

While the exact amount stolen remains unclear, a former legislator alleged more than 70 million rupees ($739,550) missing from the donation boxes. The trust denies that the theft was carried out by the trustees themselves.

The trust’s trustees plan to meet again on 22 July, at which point the police report is expected to be submitted. Giri stressed that the emotional damage caused by the theft is greater than the financial loss.

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