Amid the ongoing investigation into the alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust Treasurer Swami Govinddev Giri Maharaj has said the suspected embezzlement is estimated to be around ₹3 crore, rejecting reports that valuables worth ₹14 crore were stolen.
Speaking to reporters in Pune, Giri said the exact amount would be determined by the ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe but described the higher figures circulating in some reports as incorrect.
Treasurer Denies Resignation Reports
Swami Giri also dismissed reports claiming he had resigned from the Trust amid the controversy. He clarified that he has neither submitted his resignation nor intends to step down.
He further stated that he remains committed to his responsibilities and rejected speculation surrounding his future with the Trust.
Champat Rai Stepped Down Voluntarily
Commenting on the resignation of former Trust General Secretary Champat Rai, Giri said Rai had stepped down voluntarily after acknowledging negligence. He denied allegations that Rai had been made a scapegoat or pressured into resigning.
CEO Selection Underway
The Trust is also in the process of appointing its first Chief Executive Officer (CEO). According to Giri, a three-member panel, which includes a retired Lieutenant General and a former Shirdi temple official, has been constituted to oversee the selection process.
SIT Investigation Continues
Expressing confidence in the investigation, Giri said the Trust is not attempting to influence the SIT’s work and stressed that those responsible for the alleged theft should face strict action.
The Uttar Pradesh government recently granted the SIT an additional 15 days to expand its investigation into the alleged embezzlement of devotees’ donations. So far, eight individuals associated with the collection and counting of temple donations have been arrested as the probe continues.
The case revolves around allegations that cash and valuables donated by devotees at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple were misappropriated, with investigators continuing to examine the extent of the alleged financial irregularities.