New Delhi, July 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The appointment of IIT Bombay alumnus Jagdish Aphale as the first secretary of the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has triggered a political debate, with Opposition leaders seeking clarity on steps being taken to prevent alleged financial irregularities in the future.
The Trust, which oversees the administration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, has reportedly also appointed Aphale as a joint signatory for its financial transactions following allegations of misappropriation of donations linked to the temple.
Samajwadi Party spokesperson Ashutosh Verma questioned whether the appointment would ensure greater accountability and asked the government and the Trust to clarify measures being introduced to prevent any future irregularities.
“There are still unanswered questions about why no FIR has been lodged against Champat Rai. Until the government takes strict action, we will believe that influential people continue to be protected,” Verma told IANS.
Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai alleged that the Trust had faced credibility issues and demanded its restructuring under the guidance of religious leaders, including Shankaracharyas. He also called for greater representation of people from Ayodhya in the Trust.
Meanwhile, leaders from the ruling alliance said the temple body should function through a proper system with clear accountability mechanisms.
BJP MP Jagannath Sarkar said those responsible for any wrongdoing should face investigation and punishment, while stressing the need for organised functioning of the Trust.
Uttar Pradesh Minister Sanjay Nishad also said that establishing a system to prevent irregularities and fixing responsibility were necessary to ensure accountability.
The investigation into the alleged theft of offerings at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has gained momentum following directions from the Supreme Court. A newly constituted Special Investigation Team (SIT) is conducting the probe and is expected to question former trustee Anil Mishra.
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