Missing Silver Bars Prompt Investigation at Ram Temple, Ayodhya

An ongoing investigation into alleged mismanagement at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, India, has revealed that 60 kilograms of silver bars are unaccounted for. These bars were reportedly given as offerings during the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, which consecrated the idol of Ram Lalla, and were intended for placement within the temple's foundation.

India Today has obtained documentation indicating that the investigation is focused on the circumstances surrounding these missing bars. For the past six days, the special investigation team (SIT) has been analysing records and seeking to trace the lineage of these offerings. So far, officials have not established a clear record of the bars' receipt, storage, or subsequent usage.

The Jewellers Association, which contributed to the donation, asserts it has a receipt confirming the transfer of the silver to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Anurag Rastogi, president of the association, explained that the 60 kg of silver bars were gathered through contributions from jewellers nationwide. However, they reportedly were not visible during the ceremony or later construction phases, leading to their disappearance.

Currently, the SIT is working to uncover the present location of the silver and verify whether it was documented in official inventory records. The team has conducted interviews with several individuals, including Ramshankar Yadav alias Tinnu, Krishnadev Tiwari, and four priests, among others associated with Ram Lalla. Tiwari, who is responsible for jewellery and offerings, allegedly stated he had no information regarding the silver bars, as well as a missing necklace and charan paduka, or divine sandals, also being scrutinised.

The investigation team, comprised of Lucknow Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, Inspector General Kiran S, and Special Secretary Neelratan Kumar, recently evaluated the case and reviewed the procedural handling of donations. They have sought insights from those involved in the receipt and safeguarding of offerings.

The inquiry emerged following allegations that sacred ornaments—including gold, silver, and diamonds—were allegedly replaced with counterfeit items, while cash donations may have been misappropriated. The situation became contentious on June 7, when Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav voiced concerns regarding missing donations, claiming they were valued in crores of rupees and urged judicial examination of the issue.

In response to the allegations, the Uttar Pradesh government formed a three-member SIT on June 13 at the temple trust's request. Investigators have also interrogated Dr Anil Mishra, a member of the Ram Mandir trust responsible for overseeing donation management, including processes for counting and utilising the funds.

The controversies have sparked political tensions between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition groups. Amidst increasing scrutiny, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Ayodhya and defended the investigation process. He stated, "The SIT inquiry was ordered at the request of the trust. It will establish the truth and separate facts from falsehood." Adityanath further urged for public patience, reminding devotees who waited centuries for temple construction that they could endure a little longer while the SIT concludes its work to avoid prematurely discrediting Ayodhya.