Ram Temple trust sets July 18 deadline for first CEO applications
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has set July 18 as the deadline to submit applications for the position of the first chief executive officer (CEO) of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
According to a post on X, the trust will accept applications until 4 pm on July 18. This appointment is significant as it follows allegations of embezzlement of temple donations, prompting the trust to create the CEO position to strengthen administrative and financial management.
The trust’s notification states that the CEO will be appointed on a three-year contract, extendable based on satisfactory performance.
The position is based in Ayodhya. Salary and benefits will be determined through mutual discussion, as detailed by the trust on X.
Applicants must have at least a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university, be between 50 and 70 years old, and possess a minimum of 20 years of managerial experience in a large public organisation, institution, Government department, or company.
Candidates should have experience overseeing administration, finance, accounts, human resources, public relations, information technology, security, and legal affairs.
“Preference will be given to candidates who have served as Chief Administrative Officer or have experience managing a temple or Hindu religious institution. Retired officers who meet the eligibility criteria may also apply,” it added.
The notification further stated that applicants must be “actively practising Hindus” and that “being a devotee of Lord Ram belonging to the Vaishnava tradition will be considered desirable.”
Candidates must have a working knowledge of both Hindi and English.
On Sunday, Ram Temple Construction Committee chairman Nripendra Mishra stated that the trust will determine the responsibilities and powers of the first CEO, with no Government interference in the trust’s or the CEO’s operations.
“The primary responsibility of the CEO will be to uphold the faith of devotees in the trust,” Mishra had told reporters.
He stated that the CEO will oversee the temple’s financial arrangements, ensure necessary facilities for devotees visiting Ayodhya, and serve as an assistant to the trust while remaining accountable to it.
Mishra added that the trust will determine the extent of authority delegated to the CEO, who will be free to appoint necessary staff. At the same time, overall administration will remain under the trust’s control.
The notification states that the CEO will report to the trust’s general secretary and be responsible for statutory, administrative, and financial affairs.
The CEO will also oversee institutional systems, organisational development, regulatory compliance, transparency in financial transactions, asset management, and implementation of policies approved by the Board of Trustees.
Key responsibilities include ensuring the smooth conduct of religious rituals, festivals, and ceremonies; maintaining security in coordination with local, State, and central authorities; ensuring the safety and convenience of pilgrims; arranging visits for dignitaries and saints; and strengthening the trust’s reputation while promoting Sanatan traditions.
Earlier this month, the trust formed a three-member panel consisting of retired Justice Pramod Kohli, retired Lieutenant General Vishnukant Chaturvedi, and former NIT Raipur chairperson Suresh Haware to review applications and recommend suitable candidates.
Mishra clarified that he will not be on the panel and will decide whether to attend the trust’s July 22 meeting after reviewing the agenda. He stated that committee members associated with the temple’s construction are ex officio members of the trust without voting rights.
