Amid the ongoing probe into the alleged donation thefts at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, Mahant Kamal Nayan Das, successor to Trust President Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, on Sunday backed Champat Rai, the former general secretary at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. He said that the veteran VHP leader had been “betrayed” and was innocent.
Speaking to news agency ANI, Mahant Das voiced confidence in the ongoing investigation, stating that both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath would uphold justice. “Our Chief Minister and Prime Minister are honest. We trust that a fair decision will be taken,” he said.
“Champat Rai is innocent”: Mahant Das makes explosive claims
Coming out in support of Champat Rai, Mahant Das said, “Champat Rai has been betrayed. He has sacrificed his entire life for the nation, society, and Shri Ram Janmabhoomi. To date, there has been no shortcoming in him. Champat Rai is innocent. He has been cheated.”
Investigations reveal procedural lapses; 8 arrested so far
The remarks come as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) continues to probe the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Mandir. So far, eight people have been arrested, with investigators having recovered jewellery, cash, and other valuables reportedly linked to the theft case. Preliminary findings revealed procedural lapses in the handling of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, including allegations that an accused had unauthorised access to donation box keys.
Controversy prompts temple trust to accept resignation of Rai
The controversy led the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust to accept the resignations of Champat Rai as general secretary, along with trustee Anil Mishra. The Temple Trust also announced administrative changes, including the interim general secretary’s appointment and the introduction of a chief executive officer (CEO) role.
Earlier this week, Champat Rai called the allegations “baseless” stating that he would respond to every allegation only after the SIT submits its final report. He said that the truth will emerge once the probe is complete.
