SC directs SIT to conclude Ram Mandir donation theft probe, file status report

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday directed the special investigation team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya to file a status report on its progress and take the investigation to a logical conclusion.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana also asked the SIT to objectively consider any suggestions made by the litigants aimed at ensuring transparency and qualitative improvement in the probe.

The bench observed that after examining the SIT's report, the court may issue certain directions for reforms in the management of donations made by devotees visiting the Ram temple. It noted that remedial actions would have to be taken and steps ensured for transparency.

During the hearing, the court made it clear that the SIT would consider only suggestions that focus on transparency and improving the quality of the investigation. The bench also directed the SIT to submit its status report within two weeks.

The development comes amid petitions seeking a fair and time-bound probe into allegations of irregularities in the handling of donations at the Ram temple. The Supreme Court had earlier taken note of the setting up of a four-member SIT headed by Inspector General of Police Kiran S on July 27.

On July 20, the court had asked the Uttar Pradesh government to apprise it about the possibility of constituting an SIT for the probe. Subsequently, on July 13, the bench had directed the state police to submit a status report on the matter.

The court had also issued notice to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which manages the temple, on pleas seeking an impartial investigation. Several petitioners, including Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) member of Parliament Sudhakar Singh, have demanded a CBI inquiry and a forensic audit of the trust's finances.

The allegations of donation embezzlement surfaced earlier this year, prompting public scrutiny of the trust's financial management. The temple, a major pilgrimage site, receives large amounts of offerings from devotees across the country and abroad.

Legal experts say the Supreme Court's intervention underscores the need for accountability in the management of religious institutions' funds. The court's push for a thorough investigation and potential reforms aims to restore public confidence in the handling of donations.

The SIT is expected to examine all aspects of the alleged financial irregularities, including the flow and utilisation of funds. The status report will help the court decide whether further directions are necessary to ensure a comprehensive and transparent probe.

While the petitioners have sought a CBI investigation, the court has so far allowed the SIT to continue its work. The bench has indicated that it may issue guidelines on donation management after reviewing the SIT's findings.

The case highlights the broader issue of financial governance in religious trusts, which often handle substantial sums of money with limited oversight. The court's observations suggest a move towards greater scrutiny and standardised procedures for such institutions.

The next hearing is expected after the SIT submits its status report, following which the court may consider the need for reforms in the management of donations at the Ram temple and potentially other religious sites.