ram-temple-donation-probe-expands-to-recruitment-scam

Ayodhya Police have widened their investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations linked to the Ram Temple, adding a new angle involving allegations that bribes were taken in exchange for appointments at the temple establishment.

 

According to sources, the fresh line of investigation emerged during the interrogation of arrested accused Avinash Shukla, whose statements reportedly prompted investigators to examine the role of a member of the temple trust suspected of influencing the recruitment process.

 

Police are probing allegations that around 125 people were appointed to various posts at the temple and that some candidates may have paid money to secure jobs. Investigators are examining whether an organised jobs-for-bribes racket operated under the guise of temple recruitment.

 

Officials have obtained a list of those recruited and are verifying appointment records, employment documents and the circumstances under which the appointments were made. Sources said investigators have not found appointment letters, service agreements or other employment-related documents for several recruits, prompting closer scrutiny of the process.

 

The police are also preparing to question the trust member whose name has surfaced during the investigation.

Also read: BJP leader Brij Bhushan alleges funds scam at Ram Temple

 

As part of the financial probe, investigators will examine bank accounts and transaction records of the recruits and other suspects to trace any money trail linked to the alleged recruitment racket. Assets associated with the trust member under scrutiny are also being verified to determine whether there was any disproportionate increase in wealth after joining the temple trust.

 

The investigation also covers the alleged role of arrested accused Anukalp Mishra and Lav Kush Mishra, both currently in judicial custody, who are suspected of facilitating appointments.

 

The alleged financial irregularities surfaced after a Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted its preliminary findings to the Uttar Pradesh government, leading to the registration of an FIR on June 25.

 

So far, eight people have been arrested, and police have recovered nearly Rs 80 lakh in cash along with foreign currency from six of the accused. Investigators have also expanded the probe to examine land purchases and procurement activities related to the Ram Temple project.