Champat Rai steps down as Ram Temple Trust chief, Krishna Mohan takes charge
PTC Web Desk: In a significant development, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Monday accepted the resignations of general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra during a meeting held at the Ram Janmabhoomi complex. The Trust simultaneously appointed newly inducted trustee Krishna Mohan as the Interim general secretary and announced steps to strengthen its administrative system amid the ongoing investigation into the alleged donation theft case.
The meeting, which continued for over three hours, was advanced from its original July 11 schedule following the controversy surrounding temple donations. Trust members also decided to hold another meeting on July 22, when they are expected to review the Special Investigation Team (SIT) report and make fresh appointments to key positions.
Addressing reporters after the meeting, Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri said the recent allegations had caused serious concern within the organisation. He said the Trust was determined to maintain transparency and ensure that the investigation reaches its logical conclusion.
Explaining Champat Rai's decision, Govind Giri said the veteran Ram Mandir movement leader believed it was appropriate to step aside until the investigation is completed and those responsible for the alleged irregularities are identified. He added that the Trust's constitution treats a resignation as effective immediately after it is submitted, leaving no scope for its acceptance or rejection.
The Treasurer also praised Rai's contribution to the Ram Mandir movement, describing his role in the temple project as invaluable and saying the Trust respects his decision.
To ensure continuity in day-to-day functioning, Krishna Mohan has been given charge as interim general secretary. A retired Indian Forest Service officer from the Maharashtra cadre, Krishna Mohan has remained active in social work after retirement. His induction into the Trust also continues Dalit representation in its governing body.
Responding to allegations that valuables donated by devotees had disappeared, Govind Giri categorically denied the claims. He said the Trust maintains a detailed inventory of nearly 2,800 donated items and every article is safe and accounted for.
To support its claim, the Trust displayed several donated items before the media, including a gold Ramayana, symbolic footprints of Lord Ram, a necklace and the idol of Kagbhusundi. Officials said these were among the items that had been falsely reported as missing.
The Trust also constituted a committee to recommend administrative reforms aimed at improving oversight and preventing similar controversies in the future. The recommendations will be considered during the next meeting.
Reiterating the Trust's position on the alleged theft, Govind Giri said any wrongdoing must be dealt with strictly. He expressed confidence in the ongoing SIT investigation and said everyone found responsible should face legal action.
The July 22 meeting is expected to be crucial, as the Trust will review the SIT's final findings and take decisions on appointing new trustees and office-bearers.
The meeting was attended by Trust Chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, Shankaracharya Swami Vasudevanand Saraswati, Yug Purush Swami Parmanand, Pejawar seer Swami Vishwaprasannatirtha, trustee Krishna Mohan and Ayodhya District Magistrate Shashank Tripathi.
Appealing to devotees, Govind Giri urged people not to be influenced by rumours. He said anyone with doubts is welcome to inspect the Trust's official records, adding that the organisation remains committed to transparency and has full faith in the judicial process.
The developments come as the Uttar Pradesh government continues to investigate the alleged misappropriation of donations received at the Ram Mandir. The SIT is examining both cash donations and valuable offerings after an FIR was registered and several individuals linked to donation counting were arrested. The investigation report is expected before the Trust's next meeting later this month.
- With inputs from agencies
