The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Saturday confirmed that it has received the resignations of General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra amid the uproar over the alleged misappropriation of donations and 'chadhava' (offerings) at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
Both senior Trust members tendered their resignations on moral grounds on Friday, marking the first official confirmation after a day of speculation and conflicting reports. The Trust said it would deliberate on the matter and take a final decision on their resignations at its next meeting.
Describing itself as "shocked, hurt and extremely saddened" by the donation controversy, the Trust reiterated its commitment to a fair and impartial investigation while assuring devotees that their faith would be upheld.
In a statement issued by Trust Treasurer Swami Govinddev Giri, the Trust said an FIR had been registered based on the interim report of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and that legal proceedings were underway. It also assured devotees that all offerings, including silver bricks, jewellery and other valuables, are safe and properly documented.
The Trust said it would take all necessary steps to ensure such incidents do not recur and that those found guilty would be punished in accordance with the law. It also urged devotees not to be influenced by what it termed a "motivated campaign" to malign Sanatan Dharma and appealed to them not to spread or believe unverified rumours regarding the alleged donation embezzlement.
The controversy has sparked a political storm, with Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge launching a sharp attack on the BJP over the alleged financial irregularities. Questioning the silence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kharge asked why leaders who had championed the Ram Mandir were not speaking out now.
He also questioned when Prime Minister Modi would address the issue in his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme and sought accountability from the Uttar Pradesh government. "Where is Yogi Adityanath's voice now?" Kharge asked, alleging that the BJP was avoiding questions over the reported irregularities.
The BJP has rejected the Opposition's allegations and maintained that the investigation is being conducted transparently. Earlier, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had said that no guilty person would be spared and urged people not to politicise the issue while the SIT completes its probe.
The Ram Mandir donation row has triggered a fresh political confrontation, with the Opposition demanding greater transparency and accountability in the handling of devotees' donations, while the BJP has accused its critics of attempting to politicise the issue and tarnish the temple's image.
