RamTemple – Ayodhya Trust Considers CEO Post as Fund Probe Continues
RamTemple – The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is considering significant administrative changes as authorities continue examining allegations related to the handling of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust may soon introduce the post of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) as part of a broader effort to strengthen its administrative structure. The proposal has emerged while a Special Investigation Team (SIT) continues its inquiry into allegations involving the suspected misappropriation of donations received at the Ayodhya Ram Temple. According to officials familiar with the matter, the recommendation was included in the preliminary findings submitted by the two-member SIT.
Recommendation Calls for Administrative Restructuring
Officials said the suggestion to appoint a CEO is aimed at improving oversight and streamlining the trust’s day-to-day administration. Reports indicate that discussions surrounding the proposed position could involve the names of Ram Mandir Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Misra and retired IAS officer Yogeshwarram Mishra. However, no formal decision has been announced regarding the appointment.
If the trust decides to create the new position, amendments to its existing bylaws will be required, as the current governing framework does not include the office of a Chief Executive Officer.
Experienced Administrator Among Names Under Discussion
Retired IAS officer Yogeshwarram Mishra is considered one of the experienced administrators whose name has surfaced during internal discussions. During his administrative career, he served as the District Magistrate of Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Barabanki, giving him extensive experience in public administration and governance.
Officials have clarified that deliberations are still underway and that any decision regarding the proposed appointment will follow the trust’s internal procedures.
SIT Intensifies Investigation
The investigation gathered pace earlier this week when the SIT questioned former trust General Secretary Champat Rai for more than three hours. The questioning forms part of the ongoing inquiry into allegations concerning the management of donations made by devotees at the temple.
The case revolves around claims that valuable offerings, including gold, silver, and diamond ornaments donated by devotees, were allegedly replaced with counterfeit items. Investigators are also examining allegations involving the disappearance of cash donations collected by the temple.
Champat Rai Denies Any Involvement
According to sources familiar with the investigation, Champat Rai informed investigators that he had no involvement in the alleged irregularities. During the questioning, he reportedly stated that he had never expected individuals entrusted with safeguarding devotees’ offerings to engage in such misconduct.
Although Rai has not been named as an accused in the case, investigators consider his testimony important because of the senior administrative responsibilities he previously held within the trust. His statements are expected to assist the investigation as authorities continue examining the sequence of events.
Eight Arrested During Ongoing Probe
Investigators have already arrested eight individuals who were assigned responsibilities related to counting and handling cash donations and valuable offerings received at the temple. The SIT is continuing to examine documentary records, statements, and other evidence to determine the extent of the alleged financial irregularities.
Authorities have not yet announced when the investigation will conclude. Meanwhile, the proposed creation of a CEO position is being viewed as a possible step toward strengthening governance and improving accountability within the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust while the inquiry remains in progress.