SC orders speedy, impartial probe into Ram temple donation embezzlement
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Supreme Court on Monday directed a speedy, qualitative, and impartial investigation into allegations of embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The court also ordered the Uttar Pradesh government to include a forensic audit expert in the special investigation team (SIT).
Background
The case involves allegations of financial irregularities in the management of donations received for the Ram temple construction. The top court had earlier cautioned parties against politicising the controversy.
Key facts
A Supreme Court bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant heard the case on July 28, 2026.
The court directed a 'speedy, qualitative, and impartial investigation in a time-bound manner' into donation embezzlement allegations.
The Uttar Pradesh government constituted a four-member SIT headed by Inspector General Kiran S.
SIT members include IG Kiran S, DIG Somen Barma, Ayodhya SSP Gaurav Grover, and ASP Ritesh Kumar Singh.
The court ordered the inclusion of a forensic audit expert in the SIT due to the financial nature of the probe.
The SIT must submit a status report within two weeks.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented the UP government and agreed to the court's suggestion.
The court said it will take 'remedial steps to ensure transparency' in donation management.
Prelims pointers
- Supreme Court bench: Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana
- Solicitor General: Tushar Mehta
- SIT head: Inspector General Kiran S
- Location: Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
- Date of hearing: July 28, 2026
Mains angles
- Role of judiciary in ensuring transparency in religious trust management
- Balancing judicial oversight with executive investigation powers
- Significance of forensic audit in financial crime investigations