The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has released a detailed financial account, revealing it has received Rs 3,264 crore in donations since its formation. The disclosure comes amid an ongoing investigation into alleged theft and mismanagement of temple donations in Ayodhya.
Financial Disclosure and Expenditure
The Trust has provided a breakdown of its expenditure, stating that Rs 2,370 crore has been spent on the construction of the Ram Mandir, capital expenditure, and development of the temple complex. An additional Rs 391 crore has been utilised for operational expenses, day-to-day management, and religious activities.
A total of Rs 2,761 crore has been disclosed as expenditure, with the remaining funds retained by the Trust for ongoing and future works. The Trust has maintained that every donation has been accounted for and devotees can verify their contributions if required.
Clarification on Precious Metals Donations
The Trust has clarified that donated silver was melted as part of a standard process for its eventual use in the temple's construction and ornamentation. It has also publicly displayed high-value offerings, including jewellery and a gold-plated Ramcharitmanas valued at nearly Rs 5 crore, to address allegations regarding precious metals donations.
- Total donations received: Rs 3,264 crore
- Expenditure on construction and development: Rs 2,370 crore
- Operational expenses: Rs 391 crore
- Total expenditure disclosed: Rs 2,761 crore
- Value of gold-plated Ramcharitmanas: nearly Rs 5 crore
The financial disclosure and clarification on precious metals donations are part of the Trust's efforts to ensure transparency and counter speculation amid ongoing investigations. The SIT probe into alleged theft and mismanagement continues, with eight people arrested so far.