The investigation into the embezzlement of Ram Temple donations has reached a crucial financial audit stage. Ayodhya Police have requested five years of banking records from seven banks where the eight arrested suspects and the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust hold accounts. Investigators are analyzing account statements, transaction histories, and other banking details to trace any suspicious fund movements related to the alleged diversion of devotees’ offerings.
As part of the probe, a police team has visited the State Bank of India’s Ayodhya Dham branch, which houses the Trust’s primary donation account, to gather banking records. Additionally, teams have visited six other banks to secure records linked to accounts reportedly owned by the accused. The scrutiny includes examining deposit slips, account statements, and transaction specifics to validate the consistency of amounts deposited in the Trust’s accounts with recorded donations.
Authorities are also collecting records from banks where the accused individuals are believed to have personal or salary accounts. The aim is to compare transactions across all accounts to identify any potential routing of funds siphoned from temple donations through the banking system. Investigators plan to cross-reference banking records with various seized documents and digital evidence to further their inquiries.
The Naya Ghat branch of the SBI in Ayodhya has become a focal point of the investigation, with police questioning bank officials extensively. The branch reportedly manages accounts associated with seven of the eight accused and the temple trust. Alleged irregularities were brought to the attention of the Trust and police about three months ago, but no corrective measures were taken. The bank recently provided detailed account information of the accused to the authorities.
Police have issued notices to approximately six banks, including State Bank of India (SBI), Bank of Baroda, and Canara Bank, to obtain information on bank accounts and lockers held by the arrested suspects, the Trust, and others linked to the case. Around 70 to 80 individuals are reportedly under scrutiny, with notices being issued gradually. Their statements will be recorded as part of the ongoing investigation into the suspected financial misconduct.
