Fresh revelations have emerged in the investigation into the alleged illegal VIP darshan racket linked to the Ram Temple donation theft case in Ayodhya. According to the Special Investigation Team (SIT), an alleged network led by Ram Shankar Yadav alias Tinnu operated a scheme that targeted visiting pilgrims through hotels, homestays and guest accommodations, allegedly collecting lakhs of rupees every month by promising expedited VIP darshan. Investigating agencies said the probe is continuing, with the role of several temple-linked personnel and other individuals also under scrutiny.
According to investigators, the alleged operation expanded significantly after the consecration of the Ram Temple, when the number of pilgrims visiting Ayodhya increased substantially. The probe alleges that members of the gang identified visitors staying at hotels and other accommodations and offered them quick access to the temple through the VIP route. Pilgrims were allegedly charged between ₹500 and ₹1,000 per person, while those perceived to be financially well-off were allegedly asked to pay ₹2,000 or even more.
Preliminary findings suggest that the accused allegedly relied on a network of hotel owners, homestay operators and local contacts to approach pilgrims. Visitors were reportedly assured that payment would enable them to avoid long queues and receive immediate VIP access. Investigators are examining the identities of all individuals allegedly involved in the network and are also tracing the distribution of the money allegedly collected through the scheme.
The SIT has further alleged that although the principal accused had no official authority to issue VIP passes, such passes were allegedly generated through the misuse of certain authorised identity credentials. Investigators are examining whether any official systems or credentials were improperly accessed or misused. Authorities emphasised that these allegations remain under investigation and are yet to be conclusively established.
The investigation has also brought attention to the alleged role of another individual popularly known as “Chhotu.” According to investigators, pilgrims seeking quick VIP entry were allegedly directed to him near the temple’s VIP access route. Police are examining his alleged links with the network and his possible role in facilitating unauthorised access.
Meanwhile, in the wake of the donation theft investigation, the temple administration has implemented a revised duty roster for priests serving at the Ram Lalla shrine and other temples within the complex. Under the rotational system, the duties of approximately 35 priests are being changed at regular intervals to strengthen administrative transparency and ensure balanced deployment. At the same time, investigators continue to examine the role of certain individuals associated with temple administration as part of the broader inquiry.
Authorities are also pursuing additional legal action against those arrested in the case. During the investigation, the local development authority reportedly issued a notice concerning the under-construction house of one of the accused. Police have further alleged that another accused concealed jewellery and cash allegedly stolen from the temple at different locations. Officials said legal procedures are underway to recover the remaining assets and verify the source and movement of the funds.
Commenting on major financial crime investigations, renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said organised criminal networks often exploit legitimate systems and public trust to carry out illegal activities. He noted that digital evidence, financial transaction analysis, communication records and forensic examination of money trails play a critical role in exposing such organised networks. He also advised pilgrims to use only officially authorised facilities and avoid making payments to unauthorised individuals claiming to provide VIP access.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing. All allegations are being verified through financial records, digital evidence, documentary material and witness statements. Further legal action will be taken in accordance with the evidence gathered during the course of the investigation.
