Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Case: SIT Likely To Submit Preliminary Report To Yogi Adityanath Today

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating alleged irregularities in the handling of donations at Ayodhya's Ram temple is expected to submit its preliminary findings to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday.

The team returned to Lucknow on Saturday after spending six days in Ayodhya, where it examined the temple Trust's donation collection system, bank transactions, land purchases and spending on construction-related materials.

Officials familiar with the development said those questioned during the inquiry have been asked to remain in Ayodhya until further directions.

The probe has widened beyond the alleged diversion of donation money. Investigators are also looking into the purchase of land by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, including allegations that around 71 acres were bought at rates significantly higher than the market value.

The SIT reviewed CCTV footage, donation counting procedures, the movement of cash from the temple premises to banks, and records related to expenditure from donation boxes. It has also examined older documents dating back to 2021.

Sources said the investigation has identified nearly 150 people whose roles are being examined, with possible action against around 25 individuals. The SIT has also collected bank account details of those under scrutiny.

Investigators suspect that a substantial part of the alleged financial irregularities may have taken place during the Prayagraj Mahakumbh Mela in early 2025, when the temple saw a sharp rise in footfall and donations.

So far, around ₹2 crore has reportedly been recovered based on information provided by five people involved in counting donations at the temple. The individuals have been identified as Lavkush, Avnish, Anukalp, Karune and Ramshankar, also known as Tinnu.

The preliminary report is expected to provide an overview of the SIT's findings so far, including the alleged financial irregularities, suspected involvement of individuals and the evidence collected during the investigation.