New Controversy Surrounding Ram Mandir Trust's Camp Office
The controversy surrounding the management and construction of the Ram Mandir Trust in Ayodhya has taken a fresh turn following allegations of financial irregularities. Engineer Dinanath Verma has raised serious accusations against Dr. Anil Mishra, a prominent member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Verma alleged that a 40 percent commission was demanded for the construction works associated with the Trust's first camp office, which was originally set up at the Ram Kachahari Charon Dham Temple premises. Following these sensational allegations, the chief priest of the temple has come forward to present his side of the story.
Mahant Shashikant Das Distances Himself From Allegations
Responding to the growing controversy, Mahant Shashikant Das of the Ram Kachahari Charon Dham Temple clarified his position, stating that he has no connection to the dispute or the allegations made by engineer Dinanath Verma. According to the Mahant, his involvement was limited solely to offering space for the noble cause of the temple administration, and he had no role in any financial dealings or construction contracts.
The Mahant revealed that the then District Magistrate Anuj Jha, Trust General Secretary Champat Rai, and other senior officials of the Trust had approached him with a request. Honoring their appeal, he agreed to hand over his newly constructed building to be used as the Trust's temporary camp office.
Space Provided Free of Cost, Says Temple Chief
Mahant Shashikant Das emphasized that the premises were provided completely free of charge. Throughout the period the camp office operated from the Ram Kachahari Charon Dham Temple, no rent, fee, or payment of any kind was accepted by him. The temporary office was later relocated to Ramnivas, after which the Trust stopped using his property.
Addressing the claims of the engineer, the Mahant stated that he does not know Dinanath Verma and has never met him. He reiterated that since his role was limited to providing the space without any financial expectations, he has absolutely no knowledge of any subsequent construction activities or the financial transactions associated with them.
