Champat Rai and Anil Mishra Resign from Ram Mandir Trust Amid Donation Controversy
In a significant development surrounding the administration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Champat Rai, General Secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, and trustee Anil Mishra have resigned from their respective positions. Their resignations come amid an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities involving donations made by devotees to the temple.
Resignations Follow Donation Theft Probe
The resignations follow a high-profile probe launched after allegations surfaced that donations received at the Ram Mandir were misappropriated. An FIR was registered based on the findings of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), and eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the alleged theft and embezzlement of temple funds.
According to reports, Champat Rai resigned as General Secretary while Anil Mishra stepped down as trustee. Although neither has been formally accused in the FIR, their resignations are widely being viewed as an effort to facilitate an impartial investigation and uphold institutional accountability.
Trust Assures Transparency
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust confirmed that it had accepted the resignations and emphasized its commitment to ensuring a fair, transparent, and independent investigation.
In an official statement, the Trust said:
- Devotees’ donations remain safe.
- There is no evidence that temple construction funds have been compromised.
- The investigation will proceed without interference.
- The Trust is committed to maintaining public confidence in the management of the Ram Mandir.
What the Investigation Revealed
The SIT reportedly found serious lapses in the handling of cash donations collected from devotees. Investigators have recovered a substantial amount of money and are examining cash management procedures, banking records, surveillance footage, and the roles of those responsible for handling temple donations.
The accused face charges including criminal breach of trust, cheating, conspiracy, and embezzlement under relevant provisions of Indian criminal law.
VHP Calls Resignations a Moral Decision
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) welcomed the decision, describing the resignations as an act of moral responsibility.
VHP President Ashok Kumar stated that Champat Rai and Anil Mishra voluntarily stepped aside to ensure that the investigation proceeds without any perception of influence or conflict of interest.
Political Reactions
The controversy has triggered sharp political reactions, with opposition parties demanding complete transparency regarding the handling of temple donations and the functioning of the Trust.
The Uttar Pradesh government has reiterated that no individual will receive special treatment and that legal action will be taken wherever evidence establishes wrongdoing.
Who Are Champat Rai and Anil Mishra?
Champat Rai has been one of the principal administrators of the Ram Mandir project and a senior functionary associated with the temple movement for decades. As General Secretary of the Trust, he oversaw key administrative and organizational functions.
Anil Mishra has served as a trustee and was responsible for supervising procedures related to the counting and management of cash offerings made by devotees.
What Happens Next?
The Trust is expected to appoint new office-bearers after internal consultations. Meanwhile, the SIT investigation is continuing, with authorities examining financial records and the alleged role of those involved in the management of temple donations. Further legal action may follow depending on the findings of the ongoing probe.
