The SIT is likely to re-examine the accounts of the Ram Temple Trust for the last five years

A special investigation team arrives on July 3, 2026 to investigate the alleged theft of donations to the Ayodhya Ram temple in Ayodhya. Photo credit: ANI

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya is likely to re-audit the accounts of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust for the past five years, government sources said on Friday (July 3, 2026). This comes after a preliminary investigation indicated widespread anomalies and irregularities.

The audit is likely to cover the expenses associated with the construction as well as the jewelry, gold, and silver received as donations. The SIT team will also conduct a detailed review of the Trust’s financial records over the entire five-year period.

The SIT – comprising Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, Inspector General (Lucknow Range) Kiran S and State Finance Department Special Secretary Neelratan Kumar – reached the Ram temple on Friday (July 3, 2026) and spoke to many people.

Suspects being questioned

Meanwhile, the Ayodhya police questioned the key suspect Avinash Shukla, who was part of the donation counting process at the temple and was earlier arrested in connection with the case. A local court sent him to police custody for 24 hours on Thursday (July 2, 2026). He is among the eight accused who have been arrested in the case so far.

The SIT has already questioned the Trust’s general secretary Champat Rai, trustee Anil Mishra and Gopal Rao, who was involved in the construction and management of the temple. Mr. Rai and Mr. Mishra have tendered their resignations from their respective posts and the Trust is expected to summon them at its July 6 meeting.

“Believe in the Probe”

Amid the political storm surrounding the case, Uttar Pradesh state minister Sanjay Nishad said people should have confidence in the investigation.

“Corruption existed in the past but everything was kept under wraps earlier. Previous governments gave protection to the corrupt. However, in our tenure these cases are being exposed and punishments are being handed out,” he said.

“One should have faith in the investigation. Instead of making statements to protect the accused and mislead the public, he should support anti-corruption measures. The investigation is conducted according to a specific process until the case is closed. No one can be accused without evidence,” he added.

Published – 03 Jul 2026 22:16 IST