Champat Rai Questioned in Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Theft Case, VHP Defends Trust

The investigation into the alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple has gathered pace, with police recording the statement of Champat Rai , general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, as part of the ongoing probe.

Officials confirmed that Rai was questioned by investigators, who reportedly sought documents and details related to the alleged irregularities in the handling of temple offerings. Sources said the questioning took place at Rai's residence in Ayodhya. Authorities, however, declined to disclose details of the interaction, citing the confidential nature of the investigation.

The case became a political flashpoint after allegations of donation theft surfaced earlier this month. Based on the preliminary findings of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) , an FIR was registered on June 25, leading to the arrest of eight individuals allegedly associated with counting and managing temple donations. Police have recovered nearly Rs 80 lakh in cash and some foreign currency during the investigation.

Meanwhile, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has defended the temple trust, asserting that it initiated an internal inquiry, recovered part of the allegedly embezzled money, and requested the Uttar Pradesh government to constitute the SIT. The VHP also said the Trust filed the FIR after receiving the SIT's preliminary report.

VHP international president Alok Kumar maintained that Rai and Trust member Anil Mishra , who resigned from their posts on June 27, stepped aside voluntarily to ensure a fair and transparent investigation. The organisation claimed Rai fully cooperated with investigators and welcomed an impartial probe into the allegations.

The investigation continues as police question the accused and examine whether established procedures for handling temple donations were violated.