Nripendra Misra urges complete reform of Ram Temple management following donation misappropriation allegations, heightening scrutiny of oversight.
The ongoing controversy surrounding alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has prompted Nripendra Misra, chairman of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Construction Committee, to demand substantial reforms in the management of the temple. This call for change arises from serious lapses in oversight, accountability, and adherence to established protocols.
In an interview with India Today TV, Misra, a retired Indian Administrative Service officer and former Principal Secretary to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressed concern over the impact of the allegations on the faith of devotees. “The irregularities have exposed vulnerabilities within the temple’s management framework,” he stated.
The controversy began when accusations surfaced regarding discrepancies in the accounting of donations to the temple, with figures suggested to be as high as ₹7 crore or more. This has ignited political tensions, leading to the recovery of cash from a temple employee’s residence. In response to the allegations, the Uttar Pradesh government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to scrutinise financial records and CCTV footage related to donations.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has refuted claims of wrongdoing, asserting that their accounts undergo regular audits with no irregularities found. Misra mentioned that the controversy is particularly distressing as the construction of the temple nears completion. “I am very hurt, especially because it is at the time when I am almost concluding my assignment for temple construction,” he remarked.
Explaining the temple’s administration, Misra pointed out that much of its operation runs on an informal, volunteer-driven basis rather than through a defined institutional framework. He noted that around 1,500 individuals are involved in various activities within the temple complex, highlighting the necessity for a formal management structure to ensure accountability.
Referring to the donation theft allegations, Misra stated, “This incident has raised serious questions about the systems meant to safeguard devotees’ offerings.” He specified that despite having detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in place from 2023 to 2025 regarding donation handling, these processes had not been implemented effectively.
He emphasised that the lack of adherence to SOPs has contributed to the current situation. Misra elaborated on the guidelines, mentioning stipulations such as dress codes for personnel managing donations and strict checks upon entry and exit from counting rooms. “Had these procedures been enforced, we would not be witnessing this situation today,” he explained.
The challenges extend beyond the counting process, with Misra citing inadequate supervisory measures as another key issue. He observed that proper oversight from bank officials and trust representatives was lacking, creating an environment of informal control over a substantial flow of donations.
The controversies have drawn political reactions, notably from opposition leaders like Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party, who has vocally questioned the management of donations. In response, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath defended the government’s actions, stating that the SIT is tasked with uncovering the truth regarding the allegations.
Adityanath urged restraint from political factions, calling for respect towards the sentiments of Ram’s devotees while the investigation is ongoing. “No statements should be made that could offend the sentiments of Ram devotees,” he said.
The unfolding events spotlight the need for a robust management system at the Ram Temple, as Misra’s remarks advocate for a professional overhaul to fortify the temple’s operations and restore trust among its supporters. The ongoing SIT probe will likely play a critical role in determining the course of action moving forward, and in addressing the controversies affecting one of India’s most revered spiritual sites.
