Archive · 20 Jul 2026
SC seeks clarity on Ram Mandir donation probe
The Supreme Court is looking into allegations that some people might have taken money meant for building the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
They want to make sure the investigation is fair and not influenced by politics.
Some people who filed complaints want the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to handle the case, but the Uttar Pradesh government thinks a special team (SIT) should do it.
The court has asked the government to think about this and will decide more on July 27.
They also want to make sure all the records of donations are kept safe.
Supreme Court cautioned against politicizing the Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, focusing on ensuring a proper investigation.
Court sought clarity on the role of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and whether it should be entrusted with conducting the probe.
Petitioners sought an independent probe by the CBI, citing lack of infrastructure in the existing SIT, and preservation of donation records.
Uttar Pradesh government indicated that the SIT could potentially be tasked with conducting the investigation.
Next hearing scheduled for July 27, when the Court is expected to consider further directions on the investigation.
- Who
- Supreme Court of India, Uttar Pradesh Government, Petitioners (Advocates Ajay Kumar Rai, Dinesh Kumar Yadav, RJD MP Sudhakar Singh)
- What
- Hearing on allegations of financial irregularities in Ram Mandir donations, discussion on investigation agency
- When
- July 27 (next hearing), current hearing on an unspecified date in July 2024
- Where
- Supreme Court of India
- Why
- To ensure a proper investigation into alleged embezzlement of Ram Mandir donations and to prevent politicization of the issue
Petitioners
Uttar Pradesh Government
Investigation Agency
Petitioners
Seek an independent probe, preferably by the CBI, citing lack of forensic and investigative infrastructure in the existing SIT.
Uttar Pradesh Government
Indicated that the SIT could potentially be tasked with conducting the probe.
Preservation of Records
Petitioners
Sought preservation and uploading of donation records, including digital and physical records, to ensure transparency and accountability.
Uttar Pradesh Government
Assured the Court that the relevant records have been preserved.
- Court Hearing Date
- July 27
- Petitioners
- Advocates Ajay Kumar Rai, Dinesh Kumar Yadav, and RJD MP Sudhakar Singh
- Allegations
- Dishonest misappropriation, diversion, and embezzlement of public donations
- Court's Stance
- Cautioned against politicizing the issue, focused on ensuring a proper investigation
- SIT's Role
- Initially constituted to examine allegations, found cognizable offence, probe now with police
- Petitioners' Demands
- Preservation of records, CBI probe, court-monitored oversight committee