Explained: Why accused in Ayodhya Ram Temple donation case could face life term

Published 25 June 2026 · india

The eight people named in the alleged Ram Temple donation embezzlement case in Ayodhya could face life imprisonment if the charges are proved in court

The eight people named in the alleged Ram Temple donation embezzlement case in Ayodhya could face life imprisonment if the charges are proved in court, with the FIR invoking several stringent provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including offences related to criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust and handling stolen property. The FIR was registered by Ayodhya Police after the Special Investigation Team (SIT), constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government, submitted its interim report recommending criminal action. Eight named accused and several unidentified persons have been booked in connection with the alleged misappropriation of donations and offerings made by devotees at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. Read Full Story The case has been registered under Sections 61, 306, 316 and 317 of the BNS.

CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY Section 61 of the BNS deals with criminal conspiracy, which applies when two or more persons agree to commit an illegal act or achieve a legal objective through illegal means. Where the conspiracy relates to an offence punishable with death, life imprisonment or imprisonment exceeding two years, conspirators can be punished in the same manner as those who abetted the principal offence. THEFT BY EMPLOYEE Section 306 pertains to theft committed by a clerk or servant of property in the possession of an employer. If convicted, the offence carries a punishment of up to seven years' imprisonment along with a mandatory fine. CRIMINAL BREACH OF TRUST One of the most serious charges invoked is Section 316(5), which deals with criminal breach of trust committed by a public servant, banker, merchant or agent entrusted with property.

The provision applies where a person dishonestly misappropriates or converts entrusted property for personal use. A conviction under this section can attract imprisonment of up to 10 years or life imprisonment, along with a fine. HANDLING STOLEN PROPERTY Section 317 relates to offences involving stolen property. Under Section 317(4), a person who habitually receives, retains, purchases or deals in stolen property can be punished with up to 10 years' imprisonment or life imprisonment, in addition to a fine. Section 317(5) prescribes punishment of up to three years' imprisonment, a fine, or both for anyone who voluntarily assists in concealing or disposing of stolen property. The FIR follows allegations that donations and offerings made by devotees at the Ram Temple were misappropriated.