The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has announced major administrative changes following a meeting held in Ayodhya amid the ongoing investigation into the alleged theft of donations at the Ram Temple. The meeting focused on restoring public confidence, reviewing the probe’s progress and strengthening the temple’s donation management system.
The Trust accepted the resignations of General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, who stepped down on moral grounds as scrutiny over the donation theft case intensified. The leadership also approved the appointment of a chief executive officer (CEO)-led administrative structure to improve transparency, accountability and day-to-day management of the temple’s affairs.
Former Indian Forest Service officer Krishna Mohan has been appointed interim general secretary until a permanent arrangement is made. Trust officials said the move is intended to ensure smooth functioning while the investigation continues.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is probing the alleged embezzlement of donations, has arrested eight people so far. During the meeting, members reviewed preliminary findings and discussed additional safeguards for handling cash, gold and silver offerings received from devotees. The Trust has also proposed a more transparent inventory and documentation system for valuable donations.
Trust chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das described the alleged theft as a serious breach of faith and said those found responsible should face the strictest legal action. At the same time, trustee Mahant Govind Dev Giri maintained that all gold and silver donated to the temple remain safe, rejecting allegations that valuable offerings had gone missing.
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