SC seeks SIT status report on Ayodhya Ram temple donation probe, issues notice

The Supreme Court on Monday sought a status report from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) examining allegations of irregularities in donations associated with the Ayodhya Ram temple. The apex court also issued notices to the concerned respondents while hearing a petition seeking judicial oversight of the investigation.

A Bench of the Supreme Court directed the SIT to place on record the progress made in the probe and scheduled the matter for further hearing on a later date. The court's order comes amid allegations that certain donations collected in the name of the Ram temple may have been misused or diverted, claims that are currently under investigation.

Court seeks update on probe

During the hearing, the Bench observed that it wanted to be apprised of the investigation's progress before considering further directions. The judges asked the SIT to submit a comprehensive status report detailing the steps taken so far, evidence collected and the current stage of the inquiry.

The court also issued notices to the respondents, asking them to file their replies within the stipulated time.

While refraining from making any observations on the merits of the allegations, the Supreme Court said it would examine the matter after reviewing the SIT's findings.

Background of the case

The petition before the apex court concerns alleged financial irregularities in donations linked to the Ayodhya Ram temple project. The petitioner has sought an independent and transparent investigation into the handling of funds, claiming there were discrepancies that warrant judicial scrutiny.

The SIT was constituted to investigate the allegations and has been carrying out its inquiry under the supervision of the competent authorities.

The matter is distinct from the construction and administration of the Ram temple itself, which is managed by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The present proceedings relate specifically to the allegations raised in the petition concerning donations and the ongoing investigation.

No findings yet

The Supreme Court has not expressed any opinion on the veracity of the allegations. By seeking a status report, the court has merely sought an update on the progress of the investigation before deciding on the next course of action.

Legal experts note that such directions are common when courts monitor sensitive investigations to ensure due process while avoiding interference with the probe.

The respondents will have an opportunity to present their stand after receiving the court's notice.

What happens next?

Following the submission of the SIT's status report and responses from the parties concerned, the Supreme Court will hear the matter again and determine whether any further directions are necessary.

Until then, the investigation will continue, with the SIT expected to update the court on the progress of its inquiry.