New Delhi, June 29: The Supreme Court on Monday refused to hear a petition urgently that sought a CBI-led probe into the alleged theft of donation funds at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir.
A bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and Sheel Nagu said there was no need for an immediate hearing. The court remarked that “heavens are not going to fall” if it hears the matter after the summer vacation.
The petition asks the court to order a CBI-led multi-agency investigation into the alleged misuse of donations collected at the Ram Mandir. Two advocates filed the public interest litigation (PIL).
The petitioners said they do not have confidence in the ongoing Uttar Pradesh Police investigation. They claimed investigators have not protected important evidence properly. Therefore, they requested the Supreme Court to hand over the case to the CBI.
However, the bench refused to list the case urgently. Instead, it scheduled the matter for hearing during the week of July 12 to 17.
Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh Police continue their investigation. Police have already recorded the statement of former Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai. Officers may also question trustee Anil Mishra if needed.
Earlier, the Trust said it was shocked by the allegations. It also said it supports a fair and transparent investigation. The Trust confirmed that Champat Rai and Anil Mishra had submitted their resignations. It added that members will discuss the resignations at the next Trust meeting.
The Trust also assured devotees that all valuables offered to Lord Ram, including silver bricks and jewellery, remain safe and fully accounted for. It expressed confidence that the investigation will bring out the truth.
The case has drawn public attention because it involves donations made by devotees at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. The Supreme Court will now hear the petition after it resumes its regular schedule in July.