Ram Mandir Trust to decide on Champat Rai, Anil Mishra resignations amid donation row

The Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is set to take a crucial decision regarding the resignations of its General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, who stepped down amid the ongoing controversy over alleged irregularities in Ram Mandir donation funds. The Trust meeting, advanced from its earlier scheduled date, is expected to address the leadership issue along with the progress of the investigation into the donation embezzlement case.

Champat Rai and Anil Mishra had tendered their resignations on moral grounds after an FIR was registered in connection with the alleged misappropriation of donations collected at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. While accepting receipt of their resignations, the Trust had said a final decision would be taken at its next meeting following internal deliberations.

The controversy has intensified after investigators arrested eight members of the temple's cash-counting team as part of the probe. Preliminary findings suggest that the alleged embezzlement was carried out by individuals involved in counting and handling donations, prompting demands for greater transparency and accountability in the Trust's financial management.

Ahead of the meeting, Trust treasurer Govind Dev Giri clarified that he had no role in the day-to-day counting of donations and maintained that all financial records and audit reports remain secure. The Trust is also expected to review the findings of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and discuss possible administrative reforms to strengthen oversight and restore public confidence.

The outcome of Monday's meeting is being closely watched by devotees and political observers alike, as it could determine the future leadership of the Trust overseeing one of India's most significant religious projects. The Trust is expected to announce its decision after completing discussions on the resignations and the ongoing investigation.