The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations that donations made to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya have “gone missing” or were embezzled. Multiple reports say the SIT is set up following a request from the Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Trust/associated temple bodies. The SIT is directed to submit an initial preliminary report within about seven days and a final report within 15 days. Hindustan Times reports that the SIT hands over its preliminary findings to senior state officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Sanjay Prasad. Other outlets report that the SIT has reached Ayodhya and is conducting aspects of the investigation, including examining records related to the Trust’s staff appointments, and questioning accused individuals at police offices, including the Special Operations Group (SOG).
Deccan Chronicle and another report from The Hindu indicate that the SIT’s probe timeline is extended by about 15 days, with the investigation widening after multiple arrests. Separate reporting also notes that the chief minister urges public cooperation with the probe while action is expected within the stipulated period.
