In an uncommon display of transparency, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Monday showcased several valuable donated items that had allegedly gone missing, asserting that every offering received by the temple is fully accounted for and warning that those involved in the theft of temple donations would face legal action.
Speaking at a press conference following an extended Trust meeting, treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri displayed five valuable offerings, including a gold Ramayana, the Lord's padukas (sacred footprints), a necklace, and the Kakbhushundi idol. He said these items were presented as examples to refute claims that they had disappeared.
"Allegations have been made that several valuable offerings donated to the Ram Temple have gone missing. We have brought the register containing records of all these items and will present each one in question before you today," he said.
The Trust also produced its inventory register, stating that it contains records of nearly 2,800 donated articles.
"We have a register documenting 2,800 such items, and all of them are safe. These five are only sample exhibits. Every donation made to the temple has been properly recorded," Govind Giri said.
He added that the Trust would strengthen its procedures to eliminate any scope for similar allegations in the future.
"Keeping this incident in mind, all future work will be carried out in a way that leaves no room for even the smallest criticism," he said, announcing that a committee had been formed to appoint designated officials for improved oversight of temple donations.
Addressing the theft of cash from temple donation boxes, Govind Giri clarified that the matter was separate from the allegations regarding donated valuables and remained under investigation.
"Theft is theft," he said. "The Special Investigation Team is investigating the case. We want everyone involved, including those who may still be absconding, to be arrested and punished."
The Trust is scheduled to meet again on July 22, when it expects to receive the SIT's final report. The meeting will also consider the appointment of additional trustees and discuss further administrative reforms.
Govind Giri also explained why the resignations of General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra were accepted.
"Once a resignation has been submitted, the decision is no longer about whether to accept or reject it. We simply had to accept it," he said.
He praised Champat Rai for his longstanding contribution to the Ram Temple movement, noting that the senior Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader had been associated with the cause since its early years and chose to step down out of a sense of responsibility. Govind Giri also announced that trustee Krishna Mohan would serve as the interim General Secretary until a permanent successor is appointed.
