New Delhi: The case regarding the theft of offerings at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir has gained significant national attention. Several individuals have already been arrested in connection with this matter. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the UP government is investigating the case thoroughly. The Uttar Pradesh government submitted its preliminary report to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on June 25, 2026.
According to the report, the theft of offerings was not a one-time incident; rather, the activity had been ongoing for a considerable period. The thefts were committed by exploiting lapses in security and surveillance systems over a long time. The SIT’s final report is still awaited, and significant revelations are expected in it.
CCTV footage reveals startling details
The Special Investigation Team is uncovering major details through CCTV footage. According to the report, the footage revealed approximately 70 instances where certain employees were allegedly seen hiding bundles of currency notes and loose cash in their clothes, pockets, and shoes. The investigation team noted that the modus operandi appeared consistent across all these incidents.
This suggests that the alleged activities had been carried out systematically over a long period. The SIT has scrutinised footage spanning from April 27 to June 5, 2026. While there are suspicions regarding similar activities before this period, they could not be confirmed due to the lack of CCTV footage.
Number of individuals under suspicion
In its preliminary investigation, the SIT has identified six individuals, Avinash Shukla, Anukul Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Manish Kumar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey, and Ramshankar Mishra, whose roles appear suspicious. Furthermore, the report recommends a detailed investigation against them under charges such as theft, embezzlement, criminal misappropriation, and criminal breach of trust.
Meanwhile, the report states that approximately ₹78.94 lakh had already been seized from some employees even before the formal investigation began. Additionally, the report mentions an excess amount of approximately ₹2.25 lakh found in the counting room on June 4, 2024.
Questions Raised Regarding the Trust’s Role
The Special Investigation Team’s report indicates that the alleged theft occurred not solely due to the actions of the employees but also because of negligence in security and surveillance operations. The report also highlights the role played by others; specifically, it reviews the conduct of Dr Anil Mishra, who was responsible for overseeing cash collection and financial management.
The investigation revealed a lack of clear written directives regarding the strict enforcement of security protocols—such as employee searches, biometric attendance, prescribed dress codes, restrictions on personal belongings, and other safety measures.
The report notes that despite awareness of these security lapses, necessary corrective actions were not taken on time. Regarding Subhash Srivastava, the official in charge of the counting room, the report states that he was fully aware of the indiscipline and security shortcomings; however, the incidents occurred due to negligence in conducting routine searches.
Role of Tinnu Yadav Also Highlighted
The report also details the role of Ramshankar Yadav, alias Tinnu Yadav. According to the investigation, he held the keys to several donation boxes (hundis) within the temple complex, yet no clear written order authorising this arrangement could be found. Additionally, the report mentions that he had recommended his relative, Manish Kumar Yadav, for counting duty.
