Ram Temple Donation Theft Case: 5-6 Employees Under SIT Scanner, Rs 2 Crore Reportedly Recovered

A major investigation is underway in Uttar Pradesh after allegations of theft from the donation boxes at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya came to light. A Special Investigation Team (SIT), formed by the state government, is now probing the case, with preliminary findings reportedly suggesting that several temple employees may have been involved.

According to sources, five to six staff members are under suspicion for allegedly removing cash from the temple's donation boxes. The matter has attracted widespread attention due to the significance of the temple and the large volume of donations it receives every day.

CCTV Footage Reportedly Raises Suspicion

Sources associated with the investigation claim that temple trust officials became suspicious after reviewing surveillance camera footage from the donation counting area.

The footage allegedly showed employees taking money from the donation boxes during the collection and counting process.

Although the alleged activity was reportedly noticed internally, the temple trust has not yet filed a formal police complaint. It is believed that an internal inquiry may have been initiated before the matter reached the public domain.

Officials have not yet released any official statement regarding the findings of the CCTV footage, and the investigation is still ongoing.

Large Amounts of Cash Allegedly Taken

According to sources, the accused employees were allegedly involved in removing substantial amounts of money from the donation boxes over a period of time.

When the Ram Temple first opened, there were around 10 donation boxes installed across the premises. Today, that number has increased to nearly 40, reflecting the growing number of devotees visiting the temple and making contributions.

The process of counting these donations is carried out by a large team. Around 50 employees are involved in the operation, including staff responsible for supervision and monitoring on behalf of the temple trust.

Investigators are now examining whether the alleged theft was the result of a coordinated effort involving multiple individuals.

Nearly Rs 2 Crore Recovered, Say Sources

One of the most significant developments in the case is the reported recovery of nearly Rs 2 crore in cash from five employees who are allegedly linked to the investigation.

While authorities have not officially confirmed the exact amount recovered, sources suggest that the cash was discovered during searches and inquiries conducted as part of the ongoing probe.

The SIT is also trying to determine whether the alleged theft was limited to a few isolated incidents or whether it had been taking place over a longer period.

SIT Investigates Financial Transactions

The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a Special Investigation Team to examine every aspect of the case. The SIT has been asked to submit its report within 15 days.
As part of the investigation, officials are scrutinising the financial records, bank transactions, investments and major expenditures of the individuals under suspicion.

Investigators are trying to identify whether there were any unusual financial activities that could be linked to the alleged theft.

The SIT visited the Ram Temple premises for the second consecutive day as part of the inquiry. On Monday, more than 42 employees were reportedly questioned, while individuals associated with the temple trust have also been asked to provide information.

Suspicion Surrounds the Role of Tinnu Yadav

During the investigation, the name of Ram Shankar, also known as Tinnu Yadav, has also emerged, with sources indicating that his role is being examined.

However, Tinnu Yadav has denied any involvement in the donation counting process. Speaking to the media, he said his responsibilities were limited to maintenance-related work inside the temple premises.

"I had nothing to do with counting the donations. My responsibility was limited to maintenance work at the temple, including cleanliness, water arrangements and installation of fans. The SIT is investigating the matter, and the truth will come out. God is watching everything, and whoever is guilty should face action," he said.

Responding to questions regarding his personal assets, Yadav explained that he had purchased land in 2008 and later built a hostel. He also stated that he had previously worked as a tempo operator and driver.

Investigation Continues

At present, the SIT is focusing on gathering evidence, questioning employees and examining financial records to understand the full scale of the alleged theft. One of the key questions investigators are trying to answer is how long the suspected activities may have been going on and whether more people were involved.

Authorities have not announced any arrests or final conclusions yet, and officials have stressed that the inquiry is still at an early stage. The findings of the SIT report are expected to provide greater clarity on the allegations and determine the next course of action.

As the investigation progresses, the case has sparked discussions about accountability, transparency and security measures in the handling of donations at one of India's most prominent religious sites.