Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh), July 6: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has formally accepted the resignations of General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra following a high-level meeting held in Ayodhya on Monday, according to Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj.
Briefing the media after the meeting, Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj said the Trust had taken note of the resignations and expressed deep concern over the situation. He remarked that the issue was not merely about the scale of alleged theft or irregularity, but about the “atmosphere” that allowed such a situation to emerge within the temple administration. He added that the members gathered in a mood of reflection and sorrow to address the developments.
Explaining the sequence of events, he said Champat Rai stepped down from his role as General Secretary, stating he felt it inappropriate to continue until those responsible for any wrongdoing were identified and held accountable. He also noted that under the Trust’s constitutional provisions, a resignation is considered effective once submitted, as highlighted during the meeting.
The Trust meeting, originally scheduled for July 11, was advanced due to the urgency of the matter. It was attended by senior religious figures including Chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, representatives of Shankaracharya traditions, Pejawar Mutt head Vishwa Prasanna Tirtha, newly inducted trustee Krishna Mohan, and officials such as the Ayodhya District Collector.
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust convened the session to discuss allegations related to financial irregularities and suspected misappropriation of donations and offerings at the Ram Mandir. The matter has triggered internal review and discussions on accountability within the Trust’s administration.
Officials also noted that senior government representation, including Uttar Pradesh’s Additional Chief Secretary (Home), participated via video conferencing as part of the broader oversight and Coordination during the meeting