Ayodhya Temple Staffer Allegedly Misused Donations to Snag ₹40 Lakh Land Deal

Ayodhya – The buzz around the newly built Ram Temple has taken a sour turn. Police have lodged a case against one of the trust’s own employees, accusing him of siphoning donation money to purchase a piece of land worth about ₹40 lakh.

According to the investigation, the staff member – whose name is being kept under wraps for now – allegedly convinced donors that their contributions would go straight into temple‑related projects. Instead, he supposedly funneled a chunk of those funds into a private transaction, buying a plot in the nearby area.

The deception allegedly unfolded over several months. Sources say the employee used his position to gain the trust of donors, promising that their money would support construction, maintenance, or community services linked to the temple. In reality, he is said to have channeled the cash into the land deal, which was later registered in his name.

When the matter came to light, a complaint was lodged with the local police, prompting an inquiry that has now culminated in an arrest. Investigators have seized financial records, donation receipts, and property documents to piece together the flow of money.

Officials from the Ram Temple trust have issued a brief statement, expressing shock at the allegations and assuring the public that they are cooperating fully with law‑enforcement agencies. “We have zero tolerance for any misuse of donor funds. A thorough internal audit is already underway,” the statement read.

Legal experts point out that the case could set a precedent for how religious institutions manage donations, especially given the massive influx of contributions since the temple’s inauguration. “Transparency is key,” says advocate Priya Sharma. “Donors need confidence that their generosity isn’t being misappropriated.”

Meanwhile, the investigation is still ongoing. The accused is currently in police custody, and the court will decide on bail in the coming days. The broader community, many of whom have pledged significant sums to the temple, is watching the developments closely, hoping for swift justice and tighter safeguards moving forward.