Ayodhya temple donation case: Police seize Rs 79.85 lakh in raids

Police on Sunday conducted raids at the residences of eight accused in the alleged Ayodhya Ram Temple embezzlement case and recovered Rs 79.85 lakh, as the investigation into the suspected misappropriation of temple donations continued.The case relates to allegations of irregularities in the handling of cash and valuables donated by devotees to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The controversy emerged after discrepancies were reportedly found in the management of donations, prompting the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust to seek an investigation.

VIDEO | Uttar Pradesh: Police raid homes of eight accused in the Ayodhya Ram Temple embezzlement case; recover Rs 79.85 lakh.

(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/jtKQYjATqc

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According to the agency reports,following the request, the Uttar Pradesh government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Based on the SIT’s preliminary findings, an FIR was registered against eight people, including staff members involved in handling and counting donations. The accused face allegations of criminal breach of trust and embezzlement of temple funds.Amid the controversy, Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra stepped down, citing moral responsibility over the issue.
The case has also triggered political reactions, with Opposition parties demanding increased transparency and, in some instances, calling for a Supreme Court-monitored probe. The Uttar Pradesh government has maintained that the allegations are being examined through the established legal process.