New Delhi: The investigation into the theft of offerings at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is progressing steadily. The SIT (Special Investigation Team) is conducting a thorough probe and is expected to submit its report soon. Meanwhile, significant changes are being observed in the temple’s operational procedures. These changes are impacting the employees responsible for the daily task of counting devotees’ offerings.
Claims are being made regarding increased duty hours and reduced salaries. Additionally, there are allegations of cuts to leave entitlements. Due to the combined pressure of increased workload and reduced leave, approximately 24 employees have submitted their resignations simultaneously. In fact, ever since the issue of the theft of offerings gained prominence, the performance of every employee has been under scrutiny.
Increased Workload on Employees
Employees working at the Ram Mandir state that the task of counting offerings was previously conducted in two shifts, allowing for a manageable distribution of work. Overall, each employee’s duty lasted about six hours. However, the system has undergone significant changes, and the same task is now being carried out in a single shift.
This has resulted in a 50% increase in duty hours, extending from six hours to nine hours. Furthermore, the staffing levels remain unchanged. Employees allege that while the workload has intensified, the facilities and benefits provided to them remain the same.
Allegations of Salary Reduction
Employees resigning from their roles within the Ram Mandir complex allege that their monthly salaries have been reduced compared to the past. According to the staff, individuals performing the same type of work are receiving different pay rates, leading to growing dissatisfaction among the workforce. There has been no official response from the concerned agency or bank regarding this matter so far.
Reduction in Leave
Employees working at the Ram Mandir complex have not only cited increased duty hours but also pointed to a reduction in leave. They state that while they previously enjoyed regular leave, the new system has curtailed their time off. As a result, they are compelled to work for extended periods without a break.
Meanwhile, the employees who resigned state that they repeatedly raised their grievances with the concerned officials, yet no solution could be found. According to sources, the employees have also registered a collective protest; they have submitted their charter of demands and resignation letters to SBI’s Tulsi Udyan branch and the relevant security agency. They stated that they decided to quit only after receiving no positive response regarding their demands.
Rules Changed After Theft of Offerings
It is worth noting that changes were made to the system after the temple administration, along with banks and security agencies, initiated a review following the reported theft of offerings at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. According to sources, the operational procedures have been undergoing rapid changes since then.
