Ayodhya Ram Temple News: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has overhauled its donation management system by introducing a comprehensive surveillance mechanism aimed at improving transparency and accountability. The move comes as authorities continue investigating the alleged misappropriation of devotees’ donations.
The revamped system, which came into effect on July 25, ensures that every step of the donation handling process—from removing collection boxes inside the temple to counting cash—is recorded on camera.
360-Degree Cameras to Monitor Entire Donation Process
According to Trust officials, the new mechanism uses 360-degree surveillance cameras along with SLR cameras to document the complete journey of donation boxes. Every movement, from transporting the collection boxes to the final cash counting, is visually recorded to create a detailed audit trail.
An eight-member monitoring team has been assigned to supervise the entire operation and ensure strict compliance with the new procedures.
Officials believe the upgraded system will enhance public confidence while making the donation process more transparent and accountable.
New Procedure for Handling Temple Donations
The Trust has also revised how donation boxes are opened and processed.
Earlier, several donation boxes were opened together during a single session. Under the new protocol, each of the temple’s around 40 donation boxes is opened on separate days, allowing officials to closely monitor every stage of the process.
To further strengthen oversight:
- Two professional videographers record the entire operation.
- Two bank officials, two Trust representatives, and two security personnel remain present throughout the counting process.
- After the cash is counted, State Bank of India (SBI) officials seal the donation box inside the counting room.
The multi-agency approach is intended to eliminate any possibility of irregularities during the collection and counting of donations.
Measures Introduced After Alleged Donation Theft
The enhanced surveillance system follows an ongoing investigation into the alleged theft of donations collected at the Ram Temple.
The case prompted the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), and police have already arrested several individuals in connection with the alleged embezzlement. The investigation remains in progress.
Trust officials believe continuous video documentation, independent monitoring, and the involvement of banking authorities will significantly reduce the risk of manipulation while strengthening the credibility of the donation management process.
The new system is also expected to simplify audits and help authorities resolve complaints more efficiently.
Investigators Probe Firm Linked to Main Accused
Meanwhile, investigators are expanding the financial probe by examining the business dealings of Saundarya Construction and Suppliers, a firm registered in the name of Poonam Devi, wife of the main accused, Ram Shankar alias ‘Tinnu’ Yadav.
Authorities are reviewing the company’s financial records to determine whether it has any connection with the alleged misuse of temple donations.
The investigating officer, Circle Officer Ashutosh Tiwari, has sought detailed information about the firm from the state tax department. Officials have begun collecting the requested records as part of the ongoing investigation.
Focus on Transparency and Devotee Confidence
With the introduction of advanced surveillance technology, stricter monitoring procedures, and the participation of multiple agencies, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust aims to make the donation process more transparent and secure. The initiative is expected to strengthen accountability, improve financial oversight, and reinforce devotees’ trust in the management of contributions made at the Ram Temple.