Nripendra Mishra Assures Thorough Probe Into Alleged Donation Fund Misappropriation
Special Investigation Team formed by Uttar Pradesh government to examine financial management and alleged irregularities in temple donation collections
Lucknow/Ayodhya, June 15, 2026: Ram Temple Construction Committee chairperson Nripendra Mishra on Monday assured that the ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in donation funds will be conducted with complete seriousness and without any laxity.
Addressing the media, Mishra said the Special Investigation Team (SIT) will examine the matter from two key perspectives criminal accountability and systemic improvements in future financial management. He stressed that both aspects are essential to ensure transparency and restore public confidence.
“When both of these dimensions are properly addressed, only then will we be able to strengthen the trust of devotees,” he said, adding that he has already discussed the matter with the district administration to ensure full cooperation during the inquiry process.
Mishra described the situation as a crucial moment for the temple administration, stating that collective effort would be required to address concerns and move forward. He noted that the ongoing investigation represents an important transition point in strengthening institutional systems associated with the temple trust.
The Uttar Pradesh government recently constituted a three member Special Investigation Team to probe allegations related to the alleged theft of donation money and overall financial management of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The move came after the trust itself requested an impartial inquiry to verify facts and address concerns surrounding financial operations.
According to officials, the SIT comprises Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, Inspector General of Police Kiran S, and Special Secretary of the Finance Department Neel Ratan. The team has been tasked with conducting a detailed and independent examination of all relevant financial records and procedures.
The controversy emerged earlier this month after political allegations claimed that large sums of donation money were unaccounted for. Opposition leaders demanded a judicial or official inquiry into the matter. In response, the trust clarified that internal audits were already underway and that no evidence supporting claims of misappropriation had been established so far.
Officials associated with the trust have maintained that financial processes are being reviewed to ensure transparency and accountability. They also emphasized that misleading narratives should not be allowed to damage the reputation of the temple institution.
Mishra reiterated that the investigation is being conducted in a structured and transparent manner, with cooperation from all stakeholders. He added that the outcome of the probe would not only address current allegations but also help strengthen future financial governance mechanisms for the temple trust.
The SIT is expected to examine accounting records, donation handling procedures, and fund management systems as part of its inquiry. Authorities have indicated that necessary corrective measures will be recommended based on the findings of the investigation.
As the probe continues, officials maintain that the process is aimed at ensuring clarity, accountability, and public trust in one of the country’s most high-profile religious institutions.