Ram Temple Trust confirms Champat Rai, Anil Mishra resignations amid donation row
Synopsis
Two of the Ram Mandir Trust's most senior figures — General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra — have resigned on moral grounds over an alleged donation theft at Ayodhya's Ram Temple. With an SIT probe underway and the Trust's final decision pending, the controversy strikes at the heart of one of independent India's most politically and spiritually charged institutions.
Key Takeaways
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust officially confirmed on 27 June that it has received resignations from General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra .
Both resigned on moral grounds amid allegations of misappropriation of donations and chadhava at the Ram Mandir, Ayodhya .
The Trust will take a final call on the resignations at its next meeting .
A case has been registered based on the interim report of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) ; legal proceedings are underway.
The Trust assured devotees that all offerings — including silver bricks and jewellery — are safe and fully accounted for.
The Trust cautioned against 'motivated campaigns' to slander Sanatan Dharma and urged devotees to disregard rumours.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Saturday, 27 June officially confirmed it has received resignations from General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra, both submitted on moral grounds amid a widening controversy over alleged misappropriation of donations and chadhava (offerings) at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The confirmation marks the first formal acknowledgement of the resignations, ending a day of conflicting reports and speculation.
What the Trust Confirmed
Both Champat Rai and Anil Mishra tendered their resignations on Friday, citing moral responsibility over the donation controversy. The Trust stated it will deliberate on the resignations and take a final call at its next meeting, without specifying a date. In a press statement issued by Trust Treasurer Swami Govinddev Giri, the Trust described itself as 'shocked, hurt and extremely saddened' by the controversy.
The Donation Controversy
The controversy centres on alleged theft and misappropriation of donations — including silver bricks, jewellery, and other valuables — offered by devotees at the Ram Mandir. A case has been lodged based on the interim report of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), and legal proceedings are reportedly underway. The Trust assured devotees that all offerings are accounted for and that a complete record is maintained.
Trust's Commitments on Transparency
In its first public statement since the controversy erupted, the Trust reiterated its commitment to a fair and impartial probe into what it termed the 'theft controversy'. It pledged that all necessary steps would be taken to prevent a recurrence and that those found guilty would be 'punished in accordance with the law'. The Trust also underlined that it acts as a representative of all devotees of Lord Ram and remains committed to upholding the faith of crores of Hindus.
Warning Against 'Motivated Campaigns'
The Trust cautioned devotees against what it called a 'motivated campaign' to slander Sanatan Dharma, urging them not to be swayed by 'baseless and misleading rumours' surrounding the donation embezzlement reports. It appealed to devotees to also discourage others from acting on hearsay. Notably, this appeal reflects the Trust's concern that the controversy, if left unaddressed, could erode public faith in one of India's most prominent religious institutions.
What Happens Next
The final decision on whether to accept the resignations of Champat Rai and Anil Mishra rests with the Trust's next meeting. The SIT probe and ongoing legal proceedings will likely shape that decision. All eyes are now on the Trust's formal response and the pace of the investigation, which carries significant implications for accountability at the Ram Mandir.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Champat Rai and Anil Mishra resign from the Ram Temple Trust?
Champat Rai and Anil Mishra resigned on moral grounds following allegations of misappropriation of donations and offerings at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya . The Trust confirmed the resignations on 27 June and said a final decision will be taken at its next meeting.
What is the Ram Mandir donation controversy about?
The controversy involves alleged theft and misappropriation of donations — including silver bricks, jewellery, and other valuables — offered by devotees at the Ram Mandir. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted an interim report based on which a case has been registered and legal proceedings have begun.
What action has the Ram Temple Trust taken so far?
The Trust has confirmed receipt of the two resignations and pledged a fair and impartial investigation. It stated that a case has been lodged on the basis of the SIT's interim report and that legal proceedings are underway. A final decision on the resignations will be made at the next Trust meeting.
Are devotees' offerings at the Ram Mandir safe?
The Trust has assured devotees that all offerings, including silver bricks and jewellery, are safe and that a complete record of all valuables is maintained. It also appealed to devotees not to be swayed by rumours about the alleged embezzlement.
Who issued the official statement on behalf of the Ram Temple Trust?
The official press statement was issued by Trust Treasurer Swami Govinddev Giri , who outlined the Trust's position on the resignations, the SIT probe, and its commitment to transparency and accountability.
