New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday declined to grant an urgent hearing on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a court-monitored Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged embezzlement of donation funds at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The apex court observed that there was no immediate urgency warranting an out-of-turn hearing and said the matter could be taken up after the court resumes its regular functioning following the summer vacation.
A bench comprising Justices M.M. Sundresh and Sheel Nagu remarked that “heavens are not going to fall,” indicating that the issue did not require immediate judicial intervention. The petition has now been listed for hearing during the week of July 12 to 17.
Petition Seeks Court-Monitored CBI Probe
According to reports, the PIL has been filed by two advocates seeking a comprehensive investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and other central agencies into the alleged misuse and misappropriation of donations received by the Ram Mandir.
The petitioners have requested a court-monitored inquiry, arguing that the ongoing investigation by the Uttar Pradesh Police is insufficient to uncover the alleged financial irregularities. They further claimed that crucial evidence may not be adequately preserved under the current investigation and sought the intervention of an independent central agency to ensure transparency and accountability.
Uttar Pradesh Police Continue Investigation
Even as the PIL awaits hearing, the Uttar Pradesh Police have continued their investigation into the allegations.
As part of the ongoing inquiry, investigators have already recorded the statement of former Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai. Officials have indicated that statements of other senior office-bearers, including trustee Anil Mishra, may also be recorded if considered necessary during the course of the investigation.
The police have not yet disclosed detailed findings, stating that the inquiry remains in progress.
Trust Rejects Allegations
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has strongly denied any wrongdoing and expressed shock over the allegations surrounding the management of donation funds.
In an earlier statement, the Trust reaffirmed its commitment to cooperating fully with the investigation and said it supports a fair and impartial inquiry into the matter.
The Trust also confirmed that it had received the resignations of Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, adding that the issue would be discussed during its next official meeting.
Assurance to Devotees
Seeking to reassure devotees, the Trust maintained that all offerings made at the Ram Mandir, including silver bricks, jewellery, and other valuables, remain safe, properly documented, and securely stored.
The Trust stated that all donated assets are fully accounted for and managed according to established procedures, rejecting allegations of financial mismanagement.
Matter to Be Heard in July
With the Supreme Court declining to accord urgent listing, the PIL will now be heard during the scheduled week in July. The outcome of the hearing could determine whether the apex court finds merit in directing an independent probe or allows the ongoing investigation by the Uttar Pradesh Police to continue.
The case has drawn considerable public attention due to the significance of the Ram Mandir project and the large volume of donations received from devotees across the country. The forthcoming hearing is expected to provide greater clarity on the legal course of the investigation.
