Ram Temple donation row: Trust to deploy CCTV, bank official to be present at counting amid theft probe
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has announced a wide-ranging set of administrative and religious reforms after its latest meeting in Ayodhya, aiming to
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has announced a wide-ranging set of administrative and religious reforms after its latest meeting in Ayodhya, aiming to improve transparency, strengthen temple governance and uphold traditional religious practices amid an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in donation counting. The Trust clarified that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) inquiry into alleged discrepancies in counting devotees' offerings is still in progress, with the final report yet to be submitted. It appealed to the public to avoid drawing conclusions before the investigation is complete, adding that any action against individuals found responsible will be initiated only after due legal procedures and in compliance with court directives. To enhance transparency with immediate effect, the Trust has decided that an Assistant General Manager from Indian Bank and a representative of Swarna Rajat Finance will remain present during the counting of donations. It also announced the introduction of live CCTV monitoring of the entire counting process to ensure greater accountability. Reviewing the existing financial management system, the Trust expressed concern over shortcomings in banking procedures and the implementation of standard operating protocols.
It has instructed its Finance Committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the current arrangements and recommend suitable corrective measures. Religious leaders who attended the meeting also voiced concerns over the role of the State Bank of India (SBI), pointing out that some personnel engaged by the bank for counting donations are among those accused in the ongoing case. In light of this, the Trust indicated that its current arrangement with SBI for counting and depositing donations may be reviewed. Religious panel to be reconstituted to preserve sanctity and traditions Despite the controversy and widespread media attention, the Trust observed that the flow of devotees to the Ram Temple has remained unaffected. It said the steady turnout reflects the unwavering faith of millions of worshippers and expressed gratitude to saints, devotees and the residents of Ayodhya for their continued support. To ensure better communication with devotees and the media, the Trust approved the appointment of an official spokesperson who will issue authentic and timely updates on temple-related matters. It also decided to reconstitute the Religious Committee (Puja-Anushthan Committee) to preserve the sanctity and age-old traditions associated with temple rituals.
The BriefWire