News for 'Ayodhya'

Ram Temple donation case: SC to hear pleas on August 17

Ram Temple donation case: SC to hear pleas on August 17

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court will hear petitions on August 17 seeking a court-monitored SIT probe into alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, after deferring the original hearing due to the Solicitor General's UN engagement.

'You are always pressuring me': RS chairman to Kharge

'You are always pressuring me': RS chairman to Kharge

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan stated he is constantly under pressure from Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, particularly after disallowing Kharge's attempt to raise the alleged theft of Ayodhya Ram Temple donations. Radhakrishnan also mentioned disallowing Treasury benches from raising the "Jharkhand issue," asserting that state subjects cannot be debated in the House. The session saw continuous disruptions, leading to an adjournment.

Raj Thackeray alleges massive donation theft at Siddhivinayak Temple

Raj Thackeray alleges massive donation theft at Siddhivinayak Temple

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

MNS president Raj Thackeray has alleged that Rs 18 crore is siphoned off annually from Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple and Rs 1,400 crore was stolen from the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. He demanded PM Modi address the issue, while the Siddhivinayak Temple Trust chairman confirmed arrests and increased income post-theft.

5,300 apply for Ram temple trust CEO post, 18 shortlisted

5,300 apply for Ram temple trust CEO post, 18 shortlisted

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust has shortlisted 18 candidates for the Chief Executive Officer position from over 5,300 applicants. Interviews are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, with the CEO's role focusing on temple administration and management. The selection follows allegations of embezzlement of temple donations, which led to an SIT probe and arrests.

Only 39% productivity in monsoon session, rues RS chairman

Only 39% productivity in monsoon session, rues RS chairman

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan expressed "deep concern" over the persistent disorder and frequent disruptions that "derailed" the business of the House during the Monsoon Session, leading to a productivity of only 39 per cent.

Ram temple theft: Accused's wife gets fresh document deadline

Ram temple theft: Accused's wife gets fresh document deadline

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) has granted Supriya Mishra, wife of Luv Kush Mishra, who is accused in the Ram temple donation case, an additional week to provide documents for a house in her name that is under construction in Ayodhya's Saadatganj area, the police said.

Oppn raises 'Amit Shah absent', chanda chori banners at Parl

Oppn raises 'Amit Shah absent', chanda chori banners at Parl

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Opposition MPs, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, staged a protest in the Parliament House complex against alleged donation theft at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and "police excesses" against student protesters. The INDIA bloc vowed to continue their agitation, demanding accountability from the government, particularly Home Minister Amit Shah, on these issues.

Ram Temple Theft Hurt Devotees But...: Yogi

Ram Temple Theft Hurt Devotees But...: Yogi

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

'The Ayodhya incident has certainly hurt the faith of all of us, of Ram devotees like us.'

2 more bills passed in Lok Sabha without debate amid Opposition protests

2 more bills passed in Lok Sabha without debate amid Opposition protests

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Lok Sabha passed two Bills, including one to rename Kerala as Keralam, without debate as Opposition members continued their protests, demanding Union Home Minister Amit Shah's presence to address police excesses against student protesters and alleged Ram temple fund irregularities.

'All donation thieves in BJP': Cong escalates attack over Ram Temple theft

'All donation thieves in BJP': Cong escalates attack over Ram Temple theft

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

The Congress on Sunday launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party over the alleged theft of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, saying not everyone in the BJP is a "chhanda chor" but all the "chhanda chors" are in the ruling party.

Opposition MPs enact 'donation theft' at Parliament complex

Opposition MPs enact 'donation theft' at Parliament complex

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Opposition MPs, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, staged a symbolic protest in Parliament, enacting the "theft" of Ram Temple donations. The INDIA bloc demanded Home Minister Amit Shah's resignation and questioned his absence, also protesting police action against student agitators.

Ram Temple Trust performs 'atonement' ritual after donation theft

Ram Temple Trust performs 'atonement' ritual after donation theft

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is conducting a 10-day purification ritual, including the recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama Stotra, to 'atone' for a recent donation theft at the Ayodhya Ram Temple complex and 'seek forgiveness' from the Almighty.

Rahul Gandhi booked over Ram temple 'chanda chori' skit at Parl

Rahul Gandhi booked over Ram temple 'chanda chori' skit at Parl

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Bharatiya Janata Party leaders and seers have filed police complaints and FIRs against Rahul Gandhi, Pappu Yadav, and Awadhesh Prasad for a skit performed in Parliament, alleging it mocked Sanatan culture and ridiculed Indian traditions concerning Ram Temple donations.

At 89, My Father Chose Ayodhya, Varanasi, Sikkim

At 89, My Father Chose Ayodhya, Varanasi, Sikkim

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Sacred spots and soaring peaks: Bucket-listing across the heartland. Roopa Unnikrishnan and her father journey through the heart of India.

Over 50% of 18th LS bills passed in same session they were introduced: Data

Over 50% of 18th LS bills passed in same session they were introduced: Data

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

More than half of the bills introduced in the 18th Lok Sabha have been passed by both Houses in the same session, a significant acceleration compared to previous terms, raising concerns about the time available for legislative scrutiny and stakeholder consultations.

Modi urges people to take 'developed India' pledge on I-Day

Modi urges people to take 'developed India' pledge on I-Day

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon citizens to celebrate Independence Day with honour and pride, urging them to take a pledge for a developed India. This appeal comes amidst parliamentary sessions marked by protests from both ruling and opposition alliances.

Amit Shah's debate offer fails to break Parliament logjam

Amit Shah's debate offer fails to break Parliament logjam

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Indian Parliament remains deadlocked as the Opposition, led by the Congress, insists on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's reply to discussions on alleged donation theft at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and student protests, rejecting the government's offer for Home Minister Amit Shah to respond.

'UP Has Potential To Generate More Than 11 Million Jobs'

'UP Has Potential To Generate More Than 11 Million Jobs'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

'Improved law and order and transparent governance have helped change UP's investment image.'

Nirmohi Akhara moves SC seeking reconstitution of Ram temple trust

Nirmohi Akhara moves SC seeking reconstitution of Ram temple trust

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The Nirmohi Akhara has approached the Supreme Court, seeking a directive to the Centre to reconstitute the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Theerth Kshetra Trust as a 'public trust' and include structural safeguards for oversight by seers, citing alleged large-scale embezzlement of donations.

Justice M S Liberhan, who probed Babri demolition, dies

Justice M S Liberhan, who probed Babri demolition, dies

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Justice Manmohan Singh Liberhan, who led the commission investigating the Babri Masjid demolition, has passed away at 87. His distinguished career included serving as Chief Justice of the Madras and Andhra Pradesh High Courts, and a long tenure at the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Will Ram temple trust decide on new CEO, secretary today?

Will Ram temple trust decide on new CEO, secretary today?

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is set to hold crucial meetings to appoint a new general secretary, fill three vacant trustee posts, and deliberate on the appointment of the temple's first Chief Executive Officer (CEO), all while addressing the ongoing donation theft controversy and the Supreme Court's call for a fair investigation.

Govt ready for Lok Sabha debate on student protests, Amit Shah to respond

Govt ready for Lok Sabha debate on student protests, Amit Shah to respond

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Indian government has confirmed its readiness for a Lok Sabha debate on the ongoing student protests and police action, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah set to address the concerns, particularly those related to the NEET paper leak issue.

SBI to oversee new donation counting system at Ram Temple

SBI to oversee new donation counting system at Ram Temple

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Ram Temple trust in Ayodhya has implemented a new, two-shift system for counting cash donations, overseen by the State Bank of India (SBI), following an embezzlement scandal. A new team, including ex-servicemen and supervisors, has been deployed to enhance security and transparency in the process, aiming to prevent future theft and restore public trust.

Shri Ram Bhoomi Movie Gets Rolling

Shri Ram Bhoomi Movie Gets Rolling

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

'Our new film, Shri Ram Bhoomi, begins shooting today in Ayodhya. How can any new work begin without the blessings of Ram Lalla and Lord Hanuman?'

Rahul, Kharge write to Modi for probe into Ram temple theft

Rahul, Kharge write to Modi for probe into Ram temple theft

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding an independent investigation into alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple. They highlighted that devotees feel betrayed and urged the Prime Minister to ensure accountability and make the Trust's financial affairs public. The controversy follows the arrest of eight people and the resignation of two Trust functionaries in connection with the alleged theft.

Digital Banking Records Now Admissible As Evidence

Digital Banking Records Now Admissible As Evidence

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Rajya Sabha has passed The Bankers' Books Evidence Bill, 2026, which aims to replace a British-era law and allow digital and virtual records to be admissible as evidence in courts. This legislation aligns with contemporary digital banking practices and extends a uniform evidential framework to various financial entities, including NBFCs and fintech companies. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the bill's role in strengthening public confidence and safeguarding customer privacy. The bill's passage, however, saw an Opposition walkout over unrelated issues.

Slipper attack on Pappu Yadav at presser as he defends Ram Temple theft skit

Slipper attack on Pappu Yadav at presser as he defends Ram Temple theft skit

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The controversy surrounding the Parliament Ram Mandir skit intensified on Sunday after a clash broke out at the residence of Purnia MP Pappu Yadav, who had portrayed a temple priest wearing saffron robes during the performance in Parliament on Friday.

Ram Temple theft: Police seek custody of 2 accused after fresh disclosure

Ram Temple theft: Police seek custody of 2 accused after fresh disclosure

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Police investigating the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya have requested seven-day custody for two jailed accused, Ram Shankar Yadav and Subhash Srivastava. This request follows new disclosures that necessitate further verification and recovery of evidence. The court is set to hear the remand application on July 14, as investigators scrutinise financial transactions and property purchases to trace the diverted funds.

Ram Temple donation scam: Security agency cites SBI request

Ram Temple donation scam: Security agency cites SBI request

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

A private security agency has denied involvement in the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The agency stated it only recruited personnel for housekeeping at an SBI branch at the bank's request, disclaiming responsibility for their duties or the alleged theft, which is currently under SIT investigation.

'Only 1 bill saw debate': Govt blames Cong for Parl washout

'Only 1 bill saw debate': Govt blames Cong for Parl washout

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Kiren Rijiju has strongly criticised the Congress for allegedly 'unfairly disrupting' the recent monsoon session.

Is UP Governor Needling Yogi?

Is UP Governor Needling Yogi?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

'Some people may not like what I am saying, but shortcomings have to be pointed out. These deficiencies should be rectified within the next three months.' 'This is Gorakhpur, where our CM himself resides. If such shortcomings exist here, then what will happen?'

Govt, Opposition blame each other for Parliament washout

Govt, Opposition blame each other for Parliament washout

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

India's Monsoon Session of Parliament concluded with significantly low productivity, marked by frequent disruptions and protests from the Opposition, primarily the Congress, leading to minimal debate on key legislation.

Stormy monsoon session ends; several bills passed without debate

Stormy monsoon session ends; several bills passed without debate

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The Lok Sabha's monsoon session concluded on Thursday, marked by relentless opposition protests over critical issues like the NEET paper leak and police action on students, yet saw the passage of several key bills without extensive debate. Home Minister Amit Shah expressed readiness to debate the student protest issue, urging the speaker to allocate time.

Modi concerned over Ram temple donation theft: Vinay Katiyar

Modi concerned over Ram temple donation theft: Vinay Katiyar

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader and former MP Vinay Katiyar on Friday said he has spoken to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Ram temple donations' theft issue and he "expressed concern".

Can Ram Temple Trust restore devotees' faith after donation scam?

Can Ram Temple Trust restore devotees' faith after donation scam?

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Residents and pilgrims in Ayodhya are anxiously awaiting the outcome of a Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust meeting, convened amidst serious allegations of embezzlement of temple donations. The controversy has led to a subdued public mood, concerns among devotees about the security of their offerings, and calls for strict action against those responsible, including "big people" behind the alleged scam. Security has been heightened as an SIT investigates and arrests have been made.

Ram temple theft: 'Important documents' found in accused's house

Ram temple theft: 'Important documents' found in accused's house

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The police sealed the room in the rented house of the accused. The police have taken the DVR of the CCTV camera installed at Mishra's rented house into their custody, official sources said.

Ram Temple theft: SC expands SIT; seeks status report in two weeks

Ram Temple theft: SC expands SIT; seeks status report in two weeks

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court on Monday took note of setting up of a four-member SIT headed by IGP Kiran S to probe alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and asked the Uttar Pradesh government to also include a forensic auditor in the probe team.

'A disgraceful blot': Nripendra Mishra on Ram temple donation theft

'A disgraceful blot': Nripendra Mishra on Ram temple donation theft

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Ram Temple Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Mishra stated that the alleged donation theft at the Ayodhya temple was a 'disgraceful blot' and expressed confidence that the temple management system would be improved to prevent future incidents.

Ram Temple Trust deactivates VIP pass IDs of Champat Rai, two ex-officials

Ram Temple Trust deactivates VIP pass IDs of Champat Rai, two ex-officials

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has deactivated the digital IDs of former general secretary Champat Rai, trustee Anil Mishra, and special invitee Gopal Rao. This action follows alleged irregularities in the issuance of VIP darshan passes and an ongoing SIT probe into financial misconduct at the Ayodhya Ram Temple. The move aims to curb misuse of preferential entry passes.

SC to hear plea for probe into Ram temple embezzlement on July 13

SC to hear plea for probe into Ram temple embezzlement on July 13

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court is set to hear a batch of petitions on July 13 seeking a fair and time-bound probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, with petitioners requesting a CBI investigation and a CAG audit of the temple trust's finances.