Srinagar, Jun 29: The Supreme Court on Monday refused to accord urgent listing to a public interest litigation seeking a court monitored CBI led probe into the alleged embezzlement of donation funds at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, observing that “heavens are not going to fall” if the matter is heard after the court resumes regular functioning, reports said.
A bench of Justices MM Sundresh and Sheel Nagu declined the request for an immediate hearing and directed that the plea be listed during the week of July 12 to 17.
The petition, filed by two advocates, sought an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation and other agencies into the alleged misappropriation of temple donations. The petitioners contended that the ongoing Uttar Pradesh Police investigation did not inspire confidence and alleged that vital evidence was not being adequately preserved.
The plea has been filed amid an ongoing police investigation into the alleged diversion of donation funds. Police have recorded the statement of former Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai, while statements of other senior Trust officials, including trustee Anil Mishra, may also be recorded if required.
Earlier, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust said it was “shocked, hurt, and deeply saddened” by the allegations and reaffirmed its commitment to a fair investigation. It also confirmed receiving the resignations of Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, stating that the issue would be taken up at its next meeting.
The Trust further assured devotees that all valuables offered to Lord Ram, including silver bricks and jewellery, were safe and fully accounted for, expressing confidence that the truth would emerge through the investigation.
