New SIT Formed to Investigate Alleged Ram Temple Donation Theft

The alleged Ram Temple donation theft case is expected to trigger a political storm in Parliament. Meanwhile, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is scheduled to hold a meeting on July 22, where members will discuss the shortage of trustees, review the final report of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), and deliberate on several administrative issues, including the appointment of a new CEO.

On Monday, the Supreme Court directed the formation of a fresh SIT to investigate the case. During the hearing, Chief Justice Surya Kant observed that a new SIT should be constituted under the leadership of a senior IPS officer so that the investigation can reach a conclusive stage.

Next Hearing on July 27

The court instructed Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to return with the Uttar Pradesh government's proposed names for the new SIT. The matter will now be heard again on July 27.

Later on Monday evening, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath approved the formation of a new SIT. The revised team will exclude Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant and Special Secretary Neelratan Kumar. Instead, it will include one DIG-rank and one SSP-rank IPS officer. The SIT will investigate the case based on the FIR already registered and has been directed to submit its report by July 30.

New Angle Emerges in the Investigation

The investigation has now taken a new turn. According to police sources, investigators are examining the possibility of clone cheque-related irregularities that surfaced during questioning.

However, police officials have not officially confirmed this aspect, stating only that all possible angles are being thoroughly investigated.

Probe Focuses on Three Bank Accounts

Sources say investigating agencies are examining whether any of the three bank accounts belonging to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust were targeted through clone cheques or involved in any financial irregularities.

If evidence of such transactions is found, the investigation may extend beyond the alleged donation theft and include banking fraud and financial misconduct.