The Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday recorded the statement of former Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai as part of its investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations made to the Ram Temple.
Rai and senior Trust member Anil Mishra resigned on Saturday after the allegations triggered a major political storm in Uttar Pradesh. Investigators are expected to question Mishra and other senior office-bearers of the Trust, if required, as the probe progresses.
So far, eight persons, including Rai's former driver, have been arrested in connection with the case. Police have recovered nearly Rs 80 lakh in cash and foreign currency from the accused.
Earlier, the Trust said it would ensure a fair and transparent inquiry into the allegations. "The trustees are shocked by the developments and are duty-bound to ensure that a fair inquiry is conducted and the faith of devotees is restored," treasurer Govind Dev Giri said in a statement.
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak has also assured "strict action" and an "impartial investigation" into the alleged donation embezzlement case.
The eight accused are scheduled to be produced before an Ayodhya court on Monday amid tight security. A heavy police deployment has been made in and around the court premises. Following the hearing, the accused are expected to be remanded to judicial custody.
Meanwhile, the Ayodhya Bar Association has convened a meeting on Monday to decide whether its members should represent the accused in court.
"After gathering opinions, a decision will be taken on whether lawyers from the Ayodhya Bar will defend the accused, oppose them, or simply condemn their actions. It is highly likely that the Advocates' Association will decide in favour of the temple and its interests," Ayodhya Bar Association president Kalika Prasad Mishra said.
