News for 'ayodhya'

Ayodhya lawyers not to defend temple fund scam accused

Ayodhya lawyers not to defend temple fund scam accused

Rediff.com1 days ago

Local legal practitioners in Ayodhya are considering a unanimous refusal to defend the eight individuals accused in the Ram temple donations embezzlement case. The Faizabad Bar Association is set to make a final decision, driven by strong local sentiment against the alleged theft of temple offerings.

'No bureaucrats in Ram Temple Trust': Ayodhya seers warn govt

'No bureaucrats in Ram Temple Trust': Ayodhya seers warn govt

Rediff.com2 days ago

Seers in Ayodhya are demanding that bureaucrats be excluded from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust following allegations of donation embezzlement and the resignations of two key members, Champat Rai and Anil Mishra. While some seers call for the trust to be run solely by religious figures to prevent corruption, others defend the integrity of the resigned officials, highlighting a division within the spiritual community regarding the trust's management and accountability.

Ayodhya will be BJP's 'Lanka Kaand': Akhilesh Yadav

Ayodhya will be BJP's 'Lanka Kaand': Akhilesh Yadav

Rediff.com3 days ago

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has launched a scathing attack on the BJP, asserting that Ayodhya will be their "Lanka" due to alleged corruption in Ram Temple donations. He also linked the issue to the NEET controversy, suggesting a wider pattern of malfeasance and predicting internal strife within the ruling party.

How A Wanted Contract Killer Met His End In Ayodhya

How A Wanted Contract Killer Met His End In Ayodhya

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A wanted contract killer, Bhanu Pratap Singh, who had over 40 cases against him and carried a reward of Rs 1 lakh, died after being injured in a police encounter with the Special Task Force (STF) in Ayodhya. He succumbed to his injuries at Medical College, Ayodhya.

Ayodhya lawyers not to defend Ram temple accused; want Champat Rai, others to leave

Ayodhya lawyers not to defend Ram temple accused; want Champat Rai, others to leave

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Faizabad Bar Association in Ayodhya has resolved that its members will not represent the eight individuals accused of embezzling donations from the Ram Temple, imposing a Rs 5 lakh penalty on any lawyer who violates this decision. The association also demanded that Champat Rai, Anil Mishra, and Gopal Rao, associated with the temple management, leave Ayodhya within three days, threatening a city blockade if they do not comply.

Ayodhya Police Probe Viral Video Of Couple Assault

Ayodhya Police Probe Viral Video Of Couple Assault

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

A video showing a group of saffron-clad men assaulting a young couple in a public park in Ayodhya has gone viral, leading police to launch an investigation. The attackers allegedly claimed the couple was 'desecrating' the temple town's religious character.

HC applied Ayodhya verdict principles to Bhojshala case

HC applied Ayodhya verdict principles to Bhojshala case

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Madhya Pradesh High Court referenced the Supreme Court's Ayodhya verdict principles while ruling on the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula mosque complex case, determining the site to be a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.

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.

'Only Small Fish Have Been Caught For Ram Temple Theft'

'Only Small Fish Have Been Caught For Ram Temple Theft'

Rediff.com8 hours ago

''These people who were running the show at the Ram temple have something to hide, therefore they are not ready for a CBI investigation.'

UP Cong chief claims house arrest ahead of Ram Temple visit

UP Cong chief claims house arrest ahead of Ram Temple visit

Rediff.com4 hours ago

Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai claims he was placed under "house arrest" in Ayodhya to prevent him from visiting the Ram temple amidst an ongoing controversy over alleged embezzlement of donations. Other Congress delegation members were also reportedly stopped or detained, sparking protests and further political debate.

Raids conducted at accused's homes in Ram Temple donation scam; money recovered

Raids conducted at accused's homes in Ram Temple donation scam; money recovered

Rediff.com1 days ago

Ayodhya Police conducted simultaneous raids at the residences of eight individuals arrested in connection with the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple. The raids followed their remand to judicial custody, with police expected to seek custodial remand. The accused were involved in counting donations, and investigators have recovered Rs 79.85 lakh so far in a case registered under various sections including the Prevention of Corruption Act.

'Heavens are not going to fall': SC refuses urgent hearing in Ram temple donation case

'Heavens are not going to fall': SC refuses urgent hearing in Ram temple donation case

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Supreme Court has declined an urgent hearing on a plea demanding a fair and time-bound investigation into alleged embezzlement of donations at the revered Ram temple in Ayodhya, deferring the matter until after the summer break.

Ram Temple donation scam: Champat Rai's statement recorded

Ram Temple donation scam: Champat Rai's statement recorded

Rediff.com18 minutes ago

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai's statement has been recorded by Ayodhya police as part of the investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple, following his offer to resign over the controversy.

Champat Rai, Anil Mishra step down as Ram Temple row deepens

Champat Rai, Anil Mishra step down as Ram Temple row deepens

Rediff.com4 days ago

The developments came after an FIR was registered in the alleged embezzlement of donations received at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Ram temple donation embezzlement case: SIT submits preliminary report

Ram temple donation embezzlement case: SIT submits preliminary report

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple has submitted its preliminary report to the Uttar Pradesh government. The SIT, formed on June 13 following requests from the temple trust, is continuing its investigation and expects to submit a final report within 10-15 days. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav had previously raised concerns about missing donations and demanded transparency in the probe.

Ram Temple donation row: Rs 79.85L recovered; 8 accused in police custody

Ram Temple donation row: Rs 79.85L recovered; 8 accused in police custody

Rediff.com3 days ago

Eight individuals arrested in connection with the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya have been remanded in police custody until June 29. Investigators have recovered Rs 79.85 lakh and invoked charges under criminal breach of trust and the Prevention of Corruption Act, as several accused were bank employees involved in counting cash donations.

Ram temple fund row: Champat Rai's driver among 8 held hours after FIR filed

Ram temple fund row: Champat Rai's driver among 8 held hours after FIR filed

Rediff.com4 days ago

Eight individuals have been arrested in Ayodhya in connection with the alleged embezzlement of donations received at the Ram temple. The arrests follow an FIR lodged by a member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, based on recommendations from a Special Investigation Team. The accused were involved in counting cash and valuables and face charges including theft and criminal breach of trust.

'Those Who Were Meant To Protect Ram Mandir Funds Looted It'

'Those Who Were Meant To Protect Ram Mandir Funds Looted It'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'SIT means nothing because the BJP government of Uttar Pradesh and Ram Janmabhoomi Trust are the same people.'

Ram Temple Trust declines financial disclosure amid SIT probe

Ram Temple Trust declines financial disclosure amid SIT probe

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust secretary, Champat Rai, has declined to provide financial details, including income, expenditure, and donations, citing an ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe. This decision follows a complaint to the Prime Minister's Office by BJP leader Rajneesh Singh, seeking transparency on the utilisation of funds for the Ram temple project.

Ram Temple donation probe: FIR alleges criminal conspiracy

Ram Temple donation probe: FIR alleges criminal conspiracy

Rediff.com4 days ago

Ayodhya Police have taken Ram Shankar Yadav into custody following an FIR alleging embezzlement of donations at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The complaint, lodged by a member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, names nine individuals and others for systematic theft and misappropriation of funds. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed, and its preliminary findings led to the FIR. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has vowed a 'zero-tolerance' policy and urged evidence submission to the SIT.

'He sacrificed his career, life for Ram temple': Brother defends Champat Rai

'He sacrificed his career, life for Ram temple': Brother defends Champat Rai

Rediff.com22 hours ago

The brother of Champat Rai, who resigned as the general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, on Monday defended him against allegations of embezzling donations for the Ram temple, saying his brother had sacrificed both his personal life and career for the Ram temple movement and the service of the nation.

SC to hear plea on Ram Temple Trust fund embezzlement

SC to hear plea on Ram Temple Trust fund embezzlement

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing for June 29 on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking the registration of an FIR and a time-bound probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations received by the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya.

Donated silver bricks, ornaments are safe: Ram Mandir trust amid row

Donated silver bricks, ornaments are safe: Ram Mandir trust amid row

Rediff.com2 days ago

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.

FIR In Ram Temple Donation Embezzlement

FIR In Ram Temple Donation Embezzlement

Rediff.com4 days ago

Most of those named were involved with the donation-counting process.

Will be in trouble if I speak truth: BJP leader on Ram temple fund row

Will be in trouble if I speak truth: BJP leader on Ram temple fund row

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

BJP leader and former MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has claimed knowledge of alleged misuse and theft of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, stating he is not yet ready to reveal the truth due to powerful individuals involved. He also commented on the NEET paper leak controversy, defending the Union Education Minister.

SIT questions Ram temple trust officials over donation theft allegations

SIT questions Ram temple trust officials over donation theft allegations

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Uttar Pradesh government has questioned Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai and administrator Gopal Rao regarding allegations of donation money theft and financial mismanagement at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

'Status of 40-kg silver donated to Ram temple not known'

'Status of 40-kg silver donated to Ram temple not known'

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

A Lucknow-based jeweller has raised concerns about the untraceable status of a three-kg silver lamp and other silver items he and his association donated to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. His claims come amidst allegations of fund embezzlement at the temple, prompting a state-level SIT investigation ordered by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Uddhav claims silver bricks donated by Sena to Ram temple 'stolen'

Uddhav claims silver bricks donated by Sena to Ram temple 'stolen'

Rediff.com2 days ago

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray criticised the BJP, accusing it of betraying Hindus by allegedly embezzling donations for the Ram temple in Ayodhya. He vowed to lead protests for "BJP-mukt Ram" and questioned the BJP's Hindutva, calling it a "Pakistan Janata Party" for its alleged party-splitting tactics and questioning citizenship. Thackeray also targeted rebel MPs, including Sanjay Deshmukh, for their defection.

Ayodhya Tragedy: Woman Kills Husband, Commits Suicide, Infant Dies

Ayodhya Tragedy: Woman Kills Husband, Commits Suicide, Infant Dies

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

A 26-year-old woman in Ayodhya allegedly killed her husband following a domestic dispute, then committed suicide by jumping in front of a train. Their 22-day-old infant later died during treatment.

Missing CCTVs, hundi keys with driver: What SIT found in Ram temple 'fraud'

Missing CCTVs, hundi keys with driver: What SIT found in Ram temple 'fraud'

Rediff.com2 days ago

Investigators recovered nearly Rs 80 lakh in cash and some foreign currency from six of the accused.

Uttar Pradesh DGP Highlights Improved Law And Order, Warns Social Media Strongmen

Uttar Pradesh DGP Highlights Improved Law And Order, Warns Social Media Strongmen

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Uttar Pradesh DGP Rajeev Krishna stated that the state's law and order situation has significantly improved, with criminals losing their former confidence. He warned against anti-social elements using social media to intimidate and discussed ongoing probes into the Ayodhya Ram Mandir irregularities and the extradition of a drug trafficking kingpin. The DGP also highlighted the rising challenge of cybercrime and police efforts to combat it.

Ram Temple funds row: SP seeks removal of trust members, probe by SC judges

Ram Temple funds row: SP seeks removal of trust members, probe by SC judges

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe alleged irregularities in the Ram temple donation funds, a move welcomed by the Ram Mandir Construction Committee chairperson. The trust itself requested the inquiry to counter misinformation, while an opposition MP demanded a Supreme Court judge-led investigation.

Medical Negligence Allegations: Ayodhya Hospital Sealed After Deaths

Medical Negligence Allegations: Ayodhya Hospital Sealed After Deaths

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

A private hospital in Ayodhya, India, has been sealed and is under investigation following the deaths of a woman and her newborn, allegedly due to medical negligence during childbirth.

UP govt forms SIT to probe Ram Temple donation controversy

UP govt forms SIT to probe Ram Temple donation controversy

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations of financial mismanagement and missing donations related to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya. The move follows a request from the Trust itself, amidst escalating political demands for transparency from various parties including the Samajwadi Party and Congress.

Koppal Student Kills Father, Sister; Online Gaming Angle Probed

Koppal Student Kills Father, Sister; Online Gaming Angle Probed

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A Pre-University student in Koppal, Karnataka, allegedly stabbed his father and elder sister to death and critically injured his mother before attempting suicide. Police are investigating the role of excessive online gaming as a potential motive for the tragic incident.

NDA ally SBSP seeks 32 seats in UP polls; BJP says....

NDA ally SBSP seeks 32 seats in UP polls; BJP says....

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party, a constituent of the Bhaatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance, has staked claim to 32 seats for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, with the aim to wrest the Samajwadi Party's stronghold of Azamgarh.

Before Alpha, 10 Times Bollywood Reimagined The Ramayana

Before Alpha, 10 Times Bollywood Reimagined The Ramayana

Rediff.com6 days ago

Long before Alpha, Bollywood had been retelling the Ramayana in modern settings, sometimes subtly and sometimes not so subtly.

Modi Has Transformed The Vocabulary Of Indian Politics

Modi Has Transformed The Vocabulary Of Indian Politics

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Few leaders since Independence have been able to establish such a direct connection with the electorate or shape the national conversation to the extent that Narendra Modi has done over the past decade, points out former Union minister Dr Karan Singh.

Your Complete Guide to Women's T20 World Cup

Your Complete Guide to Women's T20 World Cup

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 is set to bring together the world's top teams for a month of fast-paced, high-stakes cricket, as they compete for the biggest prize in the shortest format of the game.

Paresh Maity Turns Noida Airport Into An Art Landmark

Paresh Maity Turns Noida Airport Into An Art Landmark

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Beneath the high-technology systems and modern infrastructure, Noida international airport is attempting to tell a quieter story -- one rooted in the cultural and spiritual landscape of Uttar Pradesh.