Former IPS officer Amitabh Thakur has applied for the post of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, the body overseeing the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The appointment comes as the Trust seeks to strengthen governance following concerns over transparency.
Background of the Applicant
Amitabh Thakur, a 1992-batch UP cadre IPS officer, was compulsorily retired by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs on March 23, 2021, citing public interest after multiple disciplinary inquiries. His tenure would have otherwise extended to 2028.
Post-retirement, Thakur announced the formation of a political party, Adhikar Sena, and initially planned to contest the 2022 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections but did not follow through.
Why the CEO Role Matters
The selection of the CEO is seen as a key step in improving oversight at the Ram Mandir, which has faced scrutiny over alleged theft of devotees’ offerings. The new CEO will oversee daily administration, financial management, and staff operations as pilgrim numbers rise.
Next Steps for the Trust
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is finalizing the appointment, with the decision expected to address calls for greater accountability in the temple’s functioning. All eyes remain on Ayodhya as the process unfolds.
