Supreme Court urges against politicising Ram Temple donation case, seeks stronger SIT probe

The Supreme Court on Monday cautioned all parties against politicising the alleged Ram Temple donation embezzlement case, stating that the matter should be treated as a straightforward criminal investigation. Hearing petitions seeking a court-monitored probe, the bench emphasised that its role is to ensure a fair and transparent investigation rather than become part of any political debate.

The court also asked the Uttar Pradesh government whether the existing Special Investigation Team (SIT) could be reconstituted with a senior officer to strengthen the ongoing probe.

During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Uttar Pradesh government, informed the court that a status report had been submitted and that eight people have been arrested in connection with the alleged misappropriation of donations. He said the SIT had initially verified the allegations before the case was handed over to the police for further investigation after a cognisable offence was established.

The petitions seek a court-monitored investigation, a CBI probe, and an audit of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which manages the Ayodhya temple. The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for July 27, when it is expected to review the progress of the investigation and the status of the SIT.