SIT submits preliminary report in Ayodhya Ram Temple donation probe; UP govt reviews findings

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government to probe allegations of irregularities in donations made at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has submitted its preliminary report to the state government, marking a key development in the ongoing investigation.

Officials said the report was submitted within the timeline set by the government after the three-member SIT was tasked with conducting an initial inquiry into allegations of misappropriation of devotees’ offerings and financial irregularities linked to temple-related works. However, the contents of the report have not been made public so far.

The SIT was formed earlier this month on the directions of the Uttar Pradesh government after allegations regarding the handling of temple donations triggered political controversy and demands for an independent investigation. The panel was asked to submit a preliminary report within seven days and a final report within 15 days.

As part of the investigation, the SIT has examined financial records and visited the temple complex in Ayodhya. The probe has also widened beyond donation-related allegations to include scrutiny of appointments and security arrangements associated with the temple administration.

Earlier, the SIT directed several trust and temple functionaries not to leave Ayodhya while the investigation was underway, indicating that the inquiry had entered a crucial phase.

The controversy gained momentum after allegations surfaced regarding possible irregularities in the management of donations received from devotees. While opposition leaders demanded a judicial inquiry, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust rejected allegations of wrongdoing and maintained that periodic audits had not revealed any major discrepancies.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had recently expressed confidence in the probe, saying the truth would emerge through the investigation and urging restraint from all sides until the findings were available.

The state government is expected to examine the preliminary report before deciding on further action. The SIT's final report is awaited and is likely to determine the next course of legal and administrative proceedings.