Champat Rai's Resignation Accepted By Ram Temple Trust Amid Donation Theft Case Scrutiny

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has resigned the post of its General Secretary Champat Rai, amid the controversy over alleged siphoning of funds for the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, this is being probed by the Uttar Pradesh government.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has quit their General Secretary Champat Rai in the wake of the Uttar Pradesh Government's investigation into alleged siphoning off of money allocated for the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. It shows the resignation of Rai from the job as he has continued to have doubts about the controversy, but it is believed that the former is still working with the Trust in some other capacity.

Trust Begins Search For New General Secretary

Champat Rai's resignation has now been accepted and the Trust has started the process of seeking a replacement to lead its administrative affairs. Bajrang Bagra is reportedly one of the names in the running up to fill the vacancy, according to sources.

Bagra is now the International General Secretary of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP). He is a former head of public sector undertaking NALCO and a chartered accountant by profession who possesses good administrative and financial credentials.

Focus On Governance And Financial Oversight

According to sources, the Trust is looking to appoint a leader with extensive experience in governance, finance and institutional management as it enters a new phase of functioning.

The move is seen as part of an effort to strengthen the Trust's administrative structure and improve oversight, especially at a time when the organisation is under increased public attention following the donation theft case.

Champat Rai Likely To Continue As Trustee

Champat Rai, who had announced that he was resigning his post of General Secretary, has been relieved from that role while it has been reported that he will continue on as a trustee of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, if he does not wish to leave that role too.

The provision of his continued presence within the Trust would continue to ensure the continuity of the work of the Trust as a new General Secretary is elected.

Final Decision May Come After VHP Executive Meeting

A formal statement on the appointment of the next General Secretary will be unlikely to be made soon. Sources state that Vishwa Hindu Parishad's next bi-annual national executive meeting will be held in Delhi on July 19 and 20.

The meeting is expected to include discussions on key organisational matters, including transfers and appointments, following which the Trust could take a final call on the leadership change.