Champat Rai resigns as Ram Mandir Trust General Secretary (Img: Dynamite News)
Ayodhya: General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, Champat Rai, has stepped down from his position following the controversy surrounding the alleged embezzlement of donations collected at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. Rai, who also serves as the Vice President of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), resigned as investigations into the case gathered pace.
According to sources, the decision came after a key VHP meeting held in Ayodhya, where senior leaders and trust officials reviewed the developments in the ongoing investigation. Discussions reportedly focused on the donation dispute, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe, and its impact on the organisation.
Sources indicate that the VHP is worried about the damage the controversy could cause to its reputation. As one of the organisation's senior-most leaders, Champat Rai's name being linked to the case has drawn significant public attention, prompting efforts to contain the fallout.
The meeting was attended by several prominent office-bearers, including trustee Dr. Anil Mishra, construction in-charge Gopal Rao, VHP General Secretary Bajrang Lal Bagra, Central Organising Secretary Milind Parande, and Central Joint Organising Secretary Vinayak Rao.
The Uttar Pradesh Police have arrested all eight accused named in the alleged donation embezzlement case after registering the first FIR in connection with the matter. Among those arrested are individuals reportedly associated with members of the trust.
Investigators are questioning the accused to determine how the alleged misappropriation of devotees' donations was carried out, the role of each suspect, and whether the fraud had been continuing over a prolonged period. Officials are also examining whether additional individuals were involved and if the alleged theft was part of a larger organised network.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities expected to uncover further details in the coming days.
