The governing body of the Ayodhya Ram Temple, Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, has created a three‑member interim panel to take charge of all banking‑related functions after a series of high‑profile resignations linked to an alleged donation fraud. The move aims to restore financial transparency and public confidence ahead of the crucial July 22 board meeting.

Background and Trigger

In early 2025, a revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for counting donations was introduced during the Maha Kumbh. Critics allege that the new SOP weakened security protocols, facilitating the alleged misappropriation of funds. The controversy forced former General Secretary Champat Rai and member Anil Mishra to step down, leaving the trust vulnerable and prompting the need for an interim governance structure.

Members of the Interim Team

The panel consists of: Krishna Mohan, a retired Indian Forest Service (IFoS) officer appointed as interim General Secretary; Jagdish Aphale, an IIT‑Bombay alumnus and civil engineer who served as project manager during temple construction; and Chartered Accountant Chandan Rai, a finance specialist tasked with overseeing audit and compliance. Together, they are charged with maintaining all banking activities until a permanent team is confirmed.

Financial Oversight Blueprint

Key responsibilities include monitoring donation inflows, supervising bank accounts, and reviewing the SOP’s efficacy. Chandan Rai has pledged “full transparency for every transaction” and plans to make relevant records publicly accessible. This approach is designed to counter the allegations that the revised SOP allowed fund pilferage and to reassure donors and stakeholders.

Future Outlook and Implications

The July 22 meeting will decide the composition of a permanent board and the future of the interim panel. Analysts suggest that a swift, transparent resolution could stabilise the trust’s finances, enable uninterrupted temple construction, and improve cooperation with investigative agencies. Conversely, any delay or perceived opacity could reignite public skepticism and invite further legal scrutiny.

Trust Treasurer Govind Dev Giri has expressed willingness to collaborate with the interim panel, emphasizing that “the primary goal is the smooth operation of the temple complex.” His statement underscores the broader intent to keep religious activities unaffected while administrative reforms take place.