New information has surfaced in the suspected theft of donations at the Ram Temple, indicating that the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust became aware of possible irregularities several days before the issue was publicly reported. According to sources, trust representatives, following directions from General Secretary Champat Rai, joined police at the home of one suspect, Avinash Shukla, on June 5. Cash was reportedly recovered during the visit, suggesting prior police involvement. Despite this, the trust did not file an official complaint at that stage. The June 5 operation was described as informal and not linked to a registered FIR. The matter only became public on June 7, prompting questions about the timing of formal action. CCTV footage from the incident shows police taking Shukla into custody and placing him in a vehicle while he carries a black bag believed to contain recovered cash. The footage remains unverified. A Special Investigation Team earlier identified issues in cash handling, staff checks and surveillance at the shrine. The State Bank of India, responsible for donation management, faces examination over staff hired via a private firm. The probe has also covered land deals and construction purchases. The team has shared its report with the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister. On Sunday, Ayodhya police searched the homes of all eight arrested suspects with local magistrates present. The raids followed a court order placing the accused in judicial custody until June 29. The SIT was formed on June 13 after the trust raised concerns. The case gained attention on June 7 when opposition leaders called for judicial review. Political exchanges have continued, with calls for a transparent inquiry and no protection for those involved.
