Supreme Court Orders Forensic Auditor in Probe of Ayodhya Temple Donations

The Supreme Court on Monday was informed by the Uttar Pradesh government that it has set up a four-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by Inspector General of Police Kiran S to probe the alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

The court directed the state government to include a forensic auditor as the fifth member of the SIT, which is required to submit its first status report within two weeks.

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana took note of the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the state government, that the SIT was formed through a notification issued on July 25, following the apex court's suggestion.

The law officer said that besides the IGP, who was part of the team that had investigated whether an FIR was needed to be lodged, the SIT will include a Deputy Inspector General-rank officer, a Senior Superintendent of Police, and an Additional Superintendent of Police.

The bench said, "Let the SIT give its report. All remedial steps to ensure transparency will be taken. We are on a qualitative investigation of the incident." The hearing was deferred for two weeks.

Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasised, "We are focussed on having a fair, speedy, impartial investigation."

On July 20, the bench had asked the Uttar Pradesh government to explore the possibility of setting up an SIT to probe the alleged embezzlement of donations. The court's intervention follows concerns over the management of funds collected for the construction of the Ram temple, a project of significant religious and political importance.

The SIT's mandate includes examining financial records, identifying lapses, and recommending measures to prevent future irregularities. The inclusion of a forensic auditor aims to enhance the credibility of the investigation.

The case highlights the judiciary's role in ensuring accountability in religious institutions. The Supreme Court has previously overseen matters related to the Ram temple, including the landmark 2019 verdict that paved the way for its construction.