Ayodhya Ram Temple Donation Controversy: Champat Rai Breaks Silence, Awaits Final SIT Report
- By Thetripurapost Desk, New Delhi
- Jul 07, 2026
- 93
Former Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai has publicly responded for the first time since allegations surfaced over the alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple. In a statement released on Tuesday, Rai denied the accusations, said he had intentionally maintained silence, and pledged to address every allegation after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) submits its final report.
The development has intensified national attention on the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation controversy, one of the most closely watched issues involving the historic temple trust.
Champat Rai Shares Message from Ramcharitmanas
Rai posted a verse from the Shri Ramcharitmanas on his X account, highlighting that patience, faith, friendship and family relationships are truly tested only during difficult times.
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The message was widely viewed as his response to the ongoing allegations surrounding the handling of temple offerings.
In a handwritten note addressed to Ram devotees, Rai asserted that accusations of theft during the counting of donations were false. He said he chose not to react immediately because the investigation was still underway.
Final SIT Report Will Reveal the Truth, Says Rai
According to Champat Rai, the SIT's preliminary findings were presented during the Trust meeting held on Monday. Although the report has entered the public domain, he claimed it had initially been kept confidential.
Rai assured devotees that he would issue a detailed factual response after the SIT releases its final report.
He also recalled that he had been assigned to Ayodhya by the organisation in October 1991 and stated that his nearly 45-year public life has always remained transparent.
Resignation Accepted by Ram Temple Trust
Champat Rai submitted his resignation as the Trust's General Secretary on June 26, and the Trust formally accepted it during its meeting on July 6.
Despite stepping down from the administrative role, Rai continues to remain in Ayodhya while the investigation progresses.
Trust Treasurer Explains Administrative Lapses
Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj defended Rai, saying he believes Rai has no moral involvement in the alleged theft.
However, he acknowledged that administrative negligence may have contributed to the incident.
According to him, a driver with a criminal background had access to important responsibilities, including possession of keys. He alleged that the driver orchestrated the alleged theft with possible outside assistance.
The treasurer also stated that the Trust lacked a Chief Executive Officer during the period in question and confirmed that a CEO will now be appointed to strengthen administrative oversight.
Meanwhile, Krishna Mohan Das officially assumed charge as the Trust's new General Secretary.
Faizabad Court Grants Police Custody
In another significant development, the Faizabad Anti-Corruption Court granted investigators one day's police remand for three accused—Karunesh Pandey, Anukalp Mishra and Lavkush.
Police had sought seven days of custody but received approval for only one day. The accused are expected to be questioned on Wednesday.
Champat Rai Continues as VHP International Vice President
Although he has resigned from the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, Champat Rai will continue serving as the International Vice President of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP).
VHP President Alok Kumar stated that no organisational action should be taken until the allegations are conclusively proven.
Tight Security Around Champat Rai
Reports indicate that Champat Rai is currently staying at Tirtha Kshetra Puram in Ramkot near the Ram Temple under heavy security arrangements.
Even senior VHP functionaries and members of affiliated organisations reportedly require prior permission to meet him.
Ashok Gehlot Targets BJP and RSS
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot criticised the BJP and the RSS over the controversy, alleging that the issue has deeply hurt the sentiments of millions of devotees.
He also claimed that those in authority were aware of the alleged irregularities much earlier but failed to act, accusing them of suppressing the matter instead of initiating timely action.
Investigation Continues
With the SIT's final report still awaited, the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation controversy remains under intense public and political scrutiny. The investigation's findings are expected to determine accountability and shape the Trust's future administrative reforms.
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