Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh – The probe into alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple Trust has led to the arrest of eight persons. The accused comprise temple employees, security guards and staff involved in cash‑counting operations, highlighting serious lapses in handling contributions at one of India's most visited religious sites.

Background of the Charges

The complaint was lodged by Ram Mandir Trust member Krishna Mohan. Following interrogation, police placed the eight suspects in judicial custody. They are: Ram Shankar Yadav (also known as Tinnu Yadav), Manish Yadav, Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Karunesh Pandey, Subhash Srivastava, Avinash Shukla and Ram Shankar Mishra.

Ram Shankar Mishra’s Involvement

Twenty‑seven‑year‑old Ram Shankar Mishra worked in the temple’s donation‑counting department. His family resides at Ram Sakha Bagiya, a Sakha‑sect temple in Ayodhya’s Rani Bagh area. His father, Chhaddu Lal Mishra, is a priest who performs kirtan at the historic Hanumangarhi temple. While the family has distanced itself from the allegations, sister‑in‑law Sadhna Mishra spoke to the media, noting that Mishra earned roughly ₹16,000‑₹17,000 from the counting job, compared to ₹4,000‑₹5,000 from his previous camera work.

Police Evidence and Seizures

Surveillance footage from the counting room allegedly shows Mishra pocketing cash, leading to his arrest. During questioning he admitted taking money but claimed to have returned it to the trust. Police recovered ₹7,32,170 in cash and several pieces of jewellery from a locker where the money had been stored.

Tinnu Yadav – The Influential Figure

Ram Shankar Yadav, popularly called Tinnu Yadav, is described by locals and journalists as one of the most powerful individuals in temple administration. He allegedly carried a walkie‑talkie, directing both counting staff and private security. His family lives in Ayodhya’s Swarg Dwar area, but has remained silent on the case. Earlier, Tinnu worked as a driver for Champat Rai before becoming involved in temple donation management.

Roles of Other Accused

Subhash Srivastava, a retired Canara Bank cashier, volunteered his services at the temple. Other accused, including Manish Yadav and Anukalp Mishra, were responsible for various aspects of donation collection, security oversight and ledger maintenance.

Police officials emphasize that the investigation is still in its early stages. They anticipate further arrests as new evidence surfaces, and warn that the scope of the probe could expand to encompass additional temple officials.