Ayodhya: An investigation into alleged financial irregularities at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has found that several employees involved in counting donations were allegedly responsible for embezzling between Rs20 million and Rs30 million (2–3 crore), according to Indian media reports.
The allegations relate to the temple built in Ayodhya following the demolition of the Babri Mosque in 1992. Authorities launched an investigation after reports of discrepancies in the temple’s donation collections.
According to findings by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), the alleged thefts began on a small scale, with employees reportedly taking one or two Rs500 notes during the donation-counting process. Investigators say the thefts gradually escalated into the alleged misappropriation of several crores of rupees over time.
Security Weaknesses Exploited
The SIT reported that some members of the donation-counting staff took advantage of weaknesses in the temple’s multi-layered security system and gaps in CCTV surveillance.
Initially, employees allegedly concealed small amounts of cash inside their clothing or pockets while leaving the counting center. As these thefts reportedly went undetected, investigators say the suspects became more confident and eventually began removing bundles of cash instead of individual banknotes.
According to the investigation, six employees allegedly began stealing money only a few months after joining their jobs.
The suspects reportedly told investigators that they first hid one or two Rs500 notes in their clothes, and after realizing the thefts were not being detected, they gradually increased the amount of money they allegedly took.
Alleged Confessions
Indian media reports say the accused admitted during questioning that they had collectively stolen approximately Rs20 million to Rs30 million from the temple’s donation funds.
Authorities have not publicly released complete details of the investigation, and any admissions remain subject to legal proceedings.
Assets Purchased with Alleged Stolen Funds
Investigators allege that seven suspects used the misappropriated money to purchase properties in Ayodhya and other locations.
According to reports, law enforcement agencies conducted raids on June 4 and 5, recovering approximately Rs7.9 million (79 lakh) in cash and jewellery from locations linked to the accused.
Following subsequent arrests, officials reportedly recovered additional cash during the investigation.
Investigation Highlights Systemic Issues
The SIT stated that the case extends beyond the alleged actions of a handful of employees and has exposed serious shortcomings in the security mechanisms established to safeguard donations made by devotees.
Investigators said the findings underscore the need for stronger financial oversight, improved surveillance systems, and tighter controls over the handling and counting of charitable donations.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are expected to continue examining the management of the temple’s donation system while pursuing legal action against those allegedly involved. The allegations have attracted widespread attention in India because of the religious and symbolic significance of the Ram Temple and the large volume of donations it receives from devotees.
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