The investigation into the alleged embezzlement of Ram Temple donations gathered pace on Monday as Ayodhya Police recorded the statement of former Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai.
Police officials said statements of several trust members and individuals associated with the temple's donation management system are being recorded as investigators try to establish how donations were received, handled and deposited.
According to sources familiar with the investigation and cited by The Times of India, a police team led by a deputy superintendent of police-rank officer questioned Rai for more than two hours.
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Focus on donation handling process
Investigators reportedly sought details about the entire process of managing temple donations, including the receipt of cash and valuables, their counting, storage and eventual deposit in designated bank accounts.
Sources cited by TOI said the questioning aimed to understand the system governing donations and determine the responsibilities of officials involved at different stages. Investigators are also examining whether any procedural gaps may have created opportunities for the alleged embezzlement.
This is the first time Rai's statement has been recorded since he resigned as the trust's general secretary on June 27. The police had subsequently registered an FIR in the alleged donation theft case.
Financial records and electronic evidence under scrutiny
Per TOI, investigators are cross-checking Rai's statement with financial documents, banking records, CCTV footage and electronic evidence collected during the investigation.
Anil Mishra, a member of the trust who resigned alongside Rai, is also expected to be questioned, TOI reported. Statements of several other individuals connected with the trust have already been recorded or are currently being taken.
The probe has intensified over the past few days as investigators examine financial transactions, witness testimonies and documentary evidence to establish the movement of donations and determine accountability.
Who is Champat Rai?
Champat Rai, 79, began his career as a chemistry teacher at ASM Degree College in Bijnor district. He later became actively associated with the Ram Temple movement and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
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After spending time in jail during the Ram Temple agitation, he left academics and dedicated himself to the Vishwa Hindu Parishad. Over the years, he rose through the organisation and currently serves as its vice-president.
When the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was formed in 2020 following the Supreme Court's order, Rai was appointed its general secretary and played a key role in the temple project since construction began in August 2020.
FAQs:
Why was Champat Rai questioned by the police?
Police sought details about the process of receiving, counting and depositing Ram Temple donations.
Who is Champat Rai?
Champat Rai is a senior VHP leader and former general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
