Ayodhya: The investigation into the alleged theft of donations at the Ram Temple has expanded to include the role of officials and employees of the State Bank of India (SBI). Police said they are examining whether lapses in implementing the prescribed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and inadequate oversight created opportunities for the alleged theft. Investigators believe that strict adherence to the prescribed protocols could have reduced the possibility of such irregularities.
As part of the investigation, the investigating officer recorded separate statements from SBI officials and employees. According to police, several inconsistencies have emerged during questioning, with statements allegedly contradicting one another on key aspects of the donation counting process. Investigators are also examining whether the prescribed protocols governing the identification, supervision and functioning of personnel involved in counting donations were properly implemented.
Police officials said the investigation is not limited to the individuals directly engaged in counting donations but also covers the overall administrative and supervisory framework governing the process. Authorities stated that legal action would be taken against any official, employee or other individual if evidence establishes their involvement. Investigators have also indicated that the role of any person associated with the temple trust will be examined impartially if supported by evidence.
Donation counting supervisor Subhash Srivastava, who was taken into police custody for questioning, has also been examined during the investigation. Police said that no conclusive evidence directly linking him to the alleged theft has emerged at this stage. Investigators also searched his residence but reported no significant incriminating material. However, police maintain that the alleged role of co-accused Ramashankar Mishra appears more substantial. The possible involvement of several other individuals is also being examined as the investigation progresses.
Meanwhile, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has initiated a special religious atonement ceremony, describing the alleged theft of temple offerings as a serious lapse affecting religious sanctity. According to the trust, a 10-day purification ritual is being conducted across the temple complex, including the sanctum sanctorum and the parikrama area, with around 70 Vedic scholars performing Vedic recitations, yajnas, Rudrabhishek and other religious ceremonies.
The trust said the objective of the ritual is to uphold the sanctity of the temple, seek forgiveness through religious observances and reaffirm its commitment to preventing similar incidents in the future.
Police are continuing to examine banking procedures, donation counting records, relevant documents, CCTV footage and other evidence connected with the case. Officials said the investigation remains ongoing and that further legal action will be taken based on the evidence collected. The allegations remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings, and any determination of guilt will ultimately be made by the competent court.
