Ram Mandir theft probe gains momentum; SIT to question Anil Mishra

The SIT probing alleged theft of Ram Mandir offerings has intensified its investigation after Supreme Court directions. Former trustee Anil Mishra is likely to be questioned as officials record statements, examine banking records and gather evidence into alleged donation irregularities 

Ayodhya: The investigation into the alleged theft of offerings at the Ram Mandir has regained momentum following directions from the Supreme Court. The probe is progressing rapidly after the formation of a new Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is likely to question Anil Mishra.

As part of the investigation, statements of bank personnel involved in counting the temple offerings have already been recorded. The process of recording statements from office-bearers associated with the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has now begun.

---

According to officials, preparations are underway to record the statement of former trustee Dr Anil Mishra. The process of issuing a notice to him has already been initiated. The SIT is expected to question Dr Mishra based on banking records, documents, and other evidence collected during the course of the investigation.

Sources said that if required, other office-bearers associated with the Trust, including Gopal Rao, may also be questioned as part of the ongoing probe. On July 20, the Supreme Court directed the formation of a new SIT under the supervision of senior IPS officers to investigate the matter thoroughly.

Following the directive, the Uttar Pradesh government constituted a three-member SIT headed by Inspector General (IG) Kiran S. The team also includes Ayodhya Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Somen Verma and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dr Gaurav Grover. Since its formation, the SIT has accelerated the investigation and is gathering crucial evidence related to the alleged irregularities.

Although a formal meeting of the newly constituted SIT has not yet taken place, police officials maintain that the investigation is progressing steadily and in a systematic manner. Earlier, on July 26, the Uttar Pradesh government officially reconstituted the SIT to investigate allegations of irregularities in donations and offerings made at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Meanwhile, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, during a special meeting held on July 22, decided to defer the appointment of its first-ever Chief Executive Officer (CEO) by about a month. However, the Trust appointed a spokesperson to strengthen and streamline communication related to the temple.

During the meeting, the Trust also finalised the appointment of a full-time General Secretary and decided to reconstitute its religious committee to ensure the preservation of traditional authenticity, sanctity, and purity of the rituals and worship conducted within the temple complex.