The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has been granted a 15-day extension to conduct a wider and more comprehensive investigation into the case.
According to officials, the extension will allow the SIT to examine all aspects of the alleged financial irregularities and continue its probe with the objective of bringing the investigation to its logical conclusion through a fair and thorough inquiry.
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The development comes days after a local court in Ayodhya remanded all accused persons in the case to 14-day judicial custody following an intensive investigation by the Uttar Pradesh Police into alleged misappropriation of temple donations and offerings.
Probe expands after trust officials step down
The investigation gained momentum after Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra resigned from their positions, taking what they described as moral responsibility for the controversy.
As per a Times of India report sources said Champat Rai’s statement has already been recorded by investigators, while statements from other senior trust officials, including Anil Mishra, may be taken if required during the course of the investigation.
On Sunday, police teams also conducted searches at the residence of accused Avinash Shukla in Ayodhya as part of the ongoing probe.
Trust reiterates support for fair investigation
Previously, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust had issued a statement, expressing their apprehensions over the allegations and stressing their need for an unbiased investigation into the same.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust had also confirmed the resignations of Champat Rai and Anil Mishra.
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The latest probe is based on the FIR filed on June 25 in light of embezzlement allegations related to donation funds at Ram Temple.
This 15-day extension granted to the SIT is amidst the increasing demands and growing pressure from the political sphere for a thorough investigation into the Ram Mandir donations scam.
FAQs
Q1. Why has there been a 15-day extension granted to the SIT?
The extension has been given so that investigators could widen their probe into the matter and investigate thoroughly regarding the embezzlement charges.
Q2. Who has resigned in connection with the Ram Mandir donation controversy?
Champat Rai, who was the former Trust General Secretary and Anil Mishra, trustee, have resigned due to the above-stated incident.
