Who Is Bajrang Bagra? VHP Leader Replaces Champat Rai As Ram Mandir Trust General Secretary

In the latest development on the Ayodhya Ram Mandir donation theft case, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has appointed Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) International General Secretary Bajrang Bagra - as the new General secretary following the resignation of of Champat Rai. This decision was taken on Monday.

Investigations into the matter are currently being carried out by the police and a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Champat Rai Steps Down

Champat Rai - who played a significant role in the building and management of Ram Mandir project, submitted his resignation as the Trust's General Secretary. After the meeting the trust accepted his resignation and then selected Bajrang Bagra to take over the responsibility.

Who Is Bajrang Bagra?

The new General Secretary of Ram Mandir - Bajrang Bagra is a senior leader of Vishwa Hindu Parishad and has been serving the organisation's International General Secretary since February 2024. He was elected to the post during the VHP's Pranyasi Mandal and Management Committee meeting held in Ayodhya.

Bagra is originally from Rajasthan's Sikar district and is a Chartered Accountant by profession and has spent several decades working in both the corporate sector and social organisations.

Strong Corporate And Financial Background

Ahead of joining the VHP full time, Bagra built a long career in the public sector. He served as the Chairman and Managing Director of National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), one of India's Navratna public sector enterprises under the Ministry of Mines.

During his career, he also worked as Director (Finance) and Chief Financial Officer at NALCO and RITES Ltd., where he handled financial planning, corporate governance and business operations.

It must be noted that his experience is counted as one of the reason behind his appointment to the trust.

Journey In The VHP

Bagra took voluntary retirement from NALCO, and became actively involved in the Vishwa Hindu Parishad. With time he has held several key positions including President and the CEO Of Ekal Abhiyan.

Within the VHP, Bagra has often represented the organisation's views on issues related to Hindu temples, religious affairs, population concerns and religious conversions. He is widely regarded as an experienced organiser with strong leadership and management skills.

Appointment Comes Amid Ongoing Investigation

This change in the chair comes amid the sensitive period of the investigation of Ram Mandir donation theft case.

The Trust has been under public attention following allegations of embezzlement and irregularities involving temple donations. While investigations by the police and the SIT are still underway, the Trust has made changes to its leadership as it continues managing the affairs of the Ram Mandir.