Supreme Court Examines Demand for CBI Probe into Ram Temple Donations

The Supreme Court on Monday commenced hearing a batch of Public Interest Litigations (PILs) seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged financial irregularities in the collection and use of public donations for the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

A three-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant had previously issued notices to the central government, the Uttar Pradesh government, and the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust, which oversees the temple construction. The bench also directed a special investigation team (SIT) constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government to submit a status report on its inquiry.

The PILs, filed by two advocates, name the trust, the state of Uttar Pradesh, and the Union of India as respondents. The petitioners allege dishonest misappropriation, diversion, and embezzlement of funds donated by the public for the temple. They contend that the SIT lacks the necessary forensic and investigative resources to handle a complex financial probe and that it began its inquiry without registering a First Information Report (FIR).

During Monday's hearing, the court is expected to examine the progress of the SIT investigation and decide on the demand for a CBI probe. The bench is likely to consider whether the state-led SIT is adequate or if a central agency is required to ensure a thorough and independent investigation.

The Ram Temple, a highly symbolic project in India, has drawn massive public donations. The allegations of financial irregularities have raised concerns about transparency and accountability in the management of these funds.