The Supreme Court on Monday declined to grant an urgent hearing to a batch of Public Interest Litigations (PILs) seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged financial irregularities and the embezzlement of public donations collected for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

The petitions, filed by various individuals and organisations, urged the apex court to direct an independent investigation into allegations concerning the handling and utilisation of funds donated by devotees for the construction and development of the temple project.

 However, the court refused to accord immediate priority to the matter, indicating that it would be taken up in accordance with the regular listing procedure.

Allegations Relate to Public Donations

According to the petitioners, the pleas seek a transparent investigation into allegations of financial misconduct involving donations made by devotees from across the country.

The petitions reportedly argue that given the public nature of the contributions and the significance of the temple project, an independent agency should examine the allegations to ensure accountability and transparency.

The petitioners have requested that the investigation be handed over to the CBI, citing concerns over the need for an impartial and comprehensive inquiry into the matter.

No Findings Against Trust Officials So Far

The allegations come amid ongoing investigations by law enforcement agencies into suspected financial irregularities linked to individuals allegedly associated with the case.

However, official records available so far have not named senior members of the temple trust as accused in the initial complaints filed by investigating agencies.

Authorities have continued their inquiries and are examining financial transactions and other evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.

Officials have maintained that the probe remains at a preliminary stage and that conclusions will be drawn only after all evidence is scrutinised.

Court’s Refusal Limited to Urgent Listing

Legal experts pointed out that the Supreme Court’s decision was restricted to denying an urgent hearing and does not amount to a dismissal of the petitions on merits.

The pleas are expected to be listed before the court through the normal judicial process in the coming weeks.

The case has attracted significant public attention due to the religious and national importance of the Ayodhya Ram Temple project. Further develop