No phones, pocketless uniforms: Ram Temple tightens donation counting protocol
The trust has introduced pocketless uniforms, two-stage security checks, floor-based counting and a ban on phones and personal belongings as the SIT investigates alleged embezzlement of Ram Temple donations.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has introduced sweeping changes to the Ram Temple's donation counting system, tightening security and transparency measures in the wake of allegations of embezzlement of temple donations.
Under the revised protocol, employees engaged in counting donations will now undergo a strict two-tier security screening before being allowed inside the counting hall. Sources told India Today TV that a new dress code has also been made mandatory, requiring all counting staff to wear dark blue uniforms without pockets to eliminate the possibility of concealing cash or valuables.
The counting process has also been overhauled. Instead of working at tables and chairs, staff will now count donations while seated on the floor. Mobile phones, cameras, bags and all other personal belongings have been completely prohibited inside the counting hall. Employees will also be required to remove their shoes and slippers before entering the premises.
The enhanced security measures came as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) continues its probe into the alleged misappropriation of donations received at the Ram Temple.
Sources earlier said the SIT is set to conduct a fresh audit of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust's accounts as part of its investigation. The proposed review is expected to cover the past five years and scrutinise construction-related expenditure, along with donations received in the form of cash, gold, silver, jewellery and other valuables.
The alleged embezzlement came to light on June 7, prompting the Uttar Pradesh government to constitute an SIT. Acting on the team's preliminary findings, an FIR was registered on June 25. So far, eight people associated with the temple's donation counting process have been arrested.
Earlier this week, Ayodhya Police interrogated key accused Avinash Shukla after obtaining his custody. Shukla, who was involved in the temple's donation counting operations, was arrested earlier in the case. According to police sources, the largest cash recovery made during the investigation so far was from him.
The probe has also extended to senior figures linked to the temple trust. The SIT has questioned former trust general secretary Champat Rai, former trustee Anil Mishra and temple official Gopal Rao. Rai and Mishra have submitted their resignations, and the trust is expected to decide on them at its meeting scheduled for July 6.
The case has also sparked a political controversy, with the Congress demanding a public accounting of donations collected before the formation of the trust and calling for a Supreme Court-monitored investigation into the alleged embezzlement.