Winning Bizness Desk

Mumbai.Fresh findings from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged irregularities linked to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya have reportedly brought land purchases, donation management and the role of relatives of key trust functionaries under intense scrutiny. Sources associated with the investigation claim that nephews and close relatives of several influential figures connected to the temple administration were deeply involved in operations ranging from land acquisition to donation counting and contractor payments. The SIT is expected to submit its preliminary findings to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, with reports indicating that major administrative changes could follow. Recent reports have confirmed that investigators have also examined land purchases and procurement activities linked to the trust.

Land purchases raise serious valuation concerns

One of the key areas under investigation relates to the acquisition of land for the temple expansion project. Sources claim that around 107 acres were required for the larger development plan and that land parcels located between 500 meters and 3 kilometers from the Ram Janmabhoomi site were purchased over the past five years at prices allegedly reaching up to 17 times the official circle rate.

Key allegations include:

• Land purchased at rates significantly above government valuation
• Several plots reportedly linked to Nazul or temple-owned land
• Questions raised over rapid resale transactions
• All related documents reportedly seized for scrutiny

Investigators are examining whether proper procedures were followed during these transactions and whether intermediaries benefited disproportionately.

Nephew of trust functionary under spotlight

Sources claim that Chandan Rai, nephew of Trust General Secretary Champat Rai, played a significant role in land acquisition activities. Investigators are examining allegations that some land transactions involved multiple registrations within minutes, leading to substantial increases in valuation before purchase by the trust.

Among the issues reportedly under review are:

• The role of intermediaries in identifying land parcels
• Escalation of prices before final purchase
• Ownership history of acquired properties
• Financial gains made during the acquisition process

The SIT is reportedly cross-checking registry records, ownership documents and payment trails to determine whether any irregularities occurred.

Contractor payments and procurement examined

Another focus of the investigation is the procurement of construction material and contractor payments. Sources familiar with the probe claim that investigators have found indications of commission-based dealings in construction purchases, with allegations that commissions of up to 40 per cent may have been involved in certain transactions.

According to claims being examined:

• Contractor payments allegedly required informal approvals
• Procurement decisions passed through a limited group of individuals
• Material purchases are being audited for pricing irregularities
• Financial records linked to construction activities are under review

The SIT is reportedly attempting to establish whether procurement systems were transparent and whether competitive procedures were followed in awarding contracts.

Donation counting process under scrutiny

The handling of temple donations has emerged as another major area of concern. Investigators are reportedly examining the role of several individuals linked to the donation counting process. Sources claim that relatives and associates of influential figures were placed in sensitive positions involving the counting, movement and deposit of offerings received from devotees.

Among the allegations under review:

• Individuals with personal connections were assigned counting duties
• Restricted areas allegedly witnessed unauthorized access
• Cash movement procedures are being examined
• Recovery of substantial cash amounts has reportedly formed part of the inquiry

Recent reports indicate that the SIT has uncovered evidence linked to alleged donation-related irregularities and has questioned multiple individuals connected to temple operations.

Growing pressure for administrative overhaul

The investigation has widened beyond donation management to include governance structures within the temple administration. Sources claim that relatives of key figures connected to the trust were placed in influential positions despite having limited official responsibilities. Investigators are examining whether such appointments enabled undue influence over financial and operational decisions.

Key developments being watched include:

• Preliminary report likely to reach the state government soon
• Trust officials reportedly directed not to leave Ayodhya during the probe
• Possibility of administrative restructuring under discussion
• Further legal and disciplinary action may follow findings

The SIT inquiry has become one of the most closely watched investigations involving the temple administration, with its conclusions expected to determine whether extensive reforms are required in the management of one of India's most significant religious institutions.