Key facts
- Homes of eight arrested accused raided by police
- Farmhouse and Scorpio vehicle found among assets
- An Ayodhya lawyer reportedly among those implicated
- Funds allegedly misappropriated from Ram Temple donations
Uttar Pradesh police on Sunday raided the homes of eight people held in connection with alleged theft of donations from the Ayodhya Ram Temple, recovering evidence that investigators say points to substantial misappropriation of funds. Among the assets that drew attention were a farmhouse and a Scorpio vehicle, described by NDTV as reflecting the 'changed lifestyle' of those accused — a stark contrast to the religious and charitable context of the funds.
The arrests and subsequent raids represent a significant widening of a case that has embarrassed authorities linked to the temple project. An Ayodhya lawyer is also reported to be among those implicated, raising questions about the institutional oversight of the temple trust's financial operations. Police have been examining how donations — many from ordinary devotees across India — were allegedly diverted for personal benefit.
The Ram Temple at Ayodhya was consecrated in a ceremony of enormous national symbolism, with contributions pouring in from millions of Hindus across the country and abroad. The alleged misuse of these funds has provoked considerable anger among devotees and political figures alike, with demands for a thorough and transparent investigation.
Authorities are continuing to examine financial records and digital evidence as the probe expands. The case is being closely watched across the political spectrum, given the Ram Temple's centrality to both religious sentiment and the ruling BJP's political identity.