Ram Temple Donation Case: SC Seeks SIT Report, Trust Opens CEO Recruitment

The Supreme Court on Monday took up the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation theft case and issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh Government, the Central Government, and the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. A Bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant directed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Uttar Pradesh Government to submit a detailed status report on the investigation.

The Court instructed that the report must include the names of investigating officers, the composition of the SIT, and the progress made in the investigation. It also ordered the preservation of CCTV footage, DVR recordings, and all electronic evidence connected to the case to prevent any loss or tampering of evidence.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Court that the State Government would submit the report in a sealed cover. However, the Bench clarified that the report should contain complete details regarding the constitution of the SIT and its members. The matter has been listed for further hearing on July 20, 2026.

The Supreme Court is hearing four separate petitions seeking a CBI investigation, CAG and forensic audit of the Trust's financial records, preservation of banking and UPI records, restrictions on major financial decisions during the investigation, and greater transparency in the management of temple donations.

Petitioner and advocate Narendra Kumar Goswami described the alleged theft of devotees' offerings as a highly sensitive issue and stressed the need for transparency, accountability, and preservation of electronic evidence.

Meanwhile, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has announced recruitment for the post of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Applicants must be between 50 and 70 years of age, hold a graduate degree, and possess at least 20 years of senior management experience in a public institution, company, or religious organization. The last date to apply is July 18, 2026.

The selected CEO will oversee administration, finance, security, IT, legal coordination, pilgrim facilities, religious activities, and future development projects of the Trust.Separately, Ayodhya Police will produce all eight arrested accused before the court through video conferencing after the expiry of their remand. Police may also seek seven-day custody of two key accused for further investigation.