In a significant development regarding the ongoing donation embezzlement case at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, authorities have taken decisive action by deactivating the pass-generation IDs belonging to Champat Rai, Gopal Rao, and Anil Mishra. These specific credentials within the temple's management software, which were previously used to issue VIP darshan passes, have been blocked. Consequently, these individuals no longer possess the capability to authorize or issue any form of entry passes through the official system.
The Structure of Temple Pass Issuance
The temple administration facilitates two distinct categories of access for devotees: Sugam Darshan passes and Vishisht Darshan passes. To manage this efficiently, unique digital IDs were created for each member of the temple trust. These credentials allowed trustees to issue both general and VIP entry permits for pilgrims at their discretion.
Misuse of the Pass System
Investigations have uncovered serious irregularities involving the exploitation of this digital infrastructure. Allegations suggest that an individual named Tinnu Yadav leveraged vulnerabilities in the system to issue hundreds of unauthorized passes. Furthermore, associates close to Champat Rai and Anil Mishra have been accused of participating in irregularities related to the issuance of these permits, a process that reportedly generated illicit earnings amounting to lakhs of rupees.
Suspension of Key IDs
The administration highlighted that the three specific IDs responsible for the highest volume of pass issuance have been permanently disabled. Following their departure from the trust, this measure ensures that no further Sugam or VIP darshan passes can be facilitated through their recommendations, effectively cutting off a channel used for previous alleged mismanagement.
Origins of the Donation Scandal
The controversy surrounding the theft and embezzlement of offerings at the Ayodhya Ram Temple first surfaced in June 2026. The probe focuses on claims that funds from donation boxes were being siphoned off systematically in the period following the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony held on January 22, 2024. To date, 8 individuals linked to this alleged donation theft syndicate have been arrested by law enforcement.
Resignations Within the Trust
Amidst the escalating allegations of corruption and financial misappropriation, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has undergone leadership changes. The General Secretary of the trust, Champat Rai, and member Anil Mishra have officially resigned from their respective positions, with the trust formally accepting these resignations. The SIT investigation remains in its advanced stages, with further field verifications expected to be conducted during an upcoming visit to Ayodhya.
