The Supreme Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to appoint a chartered accountant as the fifth member of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged embezzlement of donations collected for the Ram Temple. The court also instructed the SIT to submit its first status report within two weeks.
The SIT was set up after reports of irregularities in the counting and handling of donations. So far, eight individuals involved in counting the donation money have been arrested.
The Supreme Court’s order came during a hearing on a petition seeking a thorough investigation into the misuse of funds. The court emphasized the need for financial expertise, leading to the inclusion of a forensic auditor in the team.
The case has drawn public attention due to the large sums of money donated for the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The SIT is expected to examine all financial records and ensure transparency.
The Uttar Pradesh government has assured compliance with the Supreme Court’s directive. Further hearings are scheduled after the SIT submits its initial report.