Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh: Police investigating the alleged theft of donations from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple have claimed that significant information emerged during the custodial interrogation of counting in-charge Subhash Srivastava and co-accused Ramashankar. According to investigators, the accused allegedly disclosed details about the suspected conspiracy, the distribution of the stolen money and the involvement of other individuals. However, police emphasized that these claims are yet to be independently verified and remain under investigation.
During questioning, Subhash Srivastava allegedly stated that Tinku Yadav, Anukalp, and Lavkush played key roles in the alleged theft. He reportedly claimed that Tinku Yadav exercised authority comparable to that of trust officials and that other staff members were reluctant to object in his presence. Police are now examining these allegations and collecting evidence to verify the claims.
The accused also allegedly stated that the thefts were carried out in a planned manner. According to his statement, he was not assigned duty on days when only coins were counted, as there was allegedly no financial advantage in those sessions. He claimed that the alleged diversion of funds was planned only during the counting of cash donations.
Subhash further alleged that the trust authorities had been informed about suspected irregularities in the donation counting process several months earlier but that no action had been taken at that time. Police, however, said this claim has not been officially established and is also being verified as part of the investigation.
Based on information provided by the accused, police claimed to have recovered cash and a bag from a rented house belonging to co-accused Ramashankar in the Mirapur area. Investigators also seized a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) as electronic evidence, which will be subjected to forensic examination.
So far, eight accused persons have been sent to judicial custody in connection with the case. Police are continuing to investigate the alleged involvement of other individuals whose names surfaced during interrogation. Officials said they are also preparing to seek police custody of Tinku Yadav to verify the allegations and gather additional evidence.
During the interrogation, Subhash Srivastava allegedly admitted that he received a share of the money that was allegedly diverted. Police, however, maintained that all statements made by the accused are being corroborated with documentary evidence, forensic findings and other material collected during the investigation. After the completion of his remand, Subhash Srivastava was sent back to judicial custody. The investigation is continuing, and authorities said further legal action will depend on the evidence established during the probe.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
