Farmhouse, Rs 65 lakh home and SUV plans: The assets under scrutiny in Ram Temple case

Ayodhya: Investigators probing the alleged embezzlement of donations from the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya are examining the assets and lifestyle of the accused, including a farmhouse, a luxury home, plans to buy an SUV and spending on a high-profile religious event.

The investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations from the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple has expanded beyond the alleged theft itself, with police now scrutinising the financial assets and lifestyle of the accused.

Among those arrested are Anukalp Mishra and his brother-in-law Lavkush Mishra, who are part of a group of eight people accused of allegedly misappropriating cash and valuables donated by devotees at the temple.

According to investigators, Anukalp is suspected of playing a key role in the alleged operation and is being examined as one of the central figures in the case.

Farmhouse, house purchase and SUV plans under investigation

Investigators are examining several assets reportedly linked to Anukalp Mishra.

According to police sources and local residents, he recently built a farmhouse on the outskirts of his native village, Basava. Authorities are also examining the purchase of a house in Ayodhya that is estimated to be worth around Rs 65 lakh.

Residents further claimed that he had begun the process of purchasing a Mahindra Scorpio SUV, adding to questions about the source of his income.

Police are verifying these claims as part of the financial investigation.

Sudden rise in wealth raises questions

Residents of Basava village told investigators that Anukalp's family's financial condition had changed significantly over the past few years.

Several villagers claimed the family previously had modest means but later built one of the most prominent houses in the village.

Police are investigating whether the reported increase in assets corresponds with the period during which the accused were associated with the temple's donation counting process.

Religious event also examined

Investigators are also looking into a seven-day religious programme organised by Anukalp in April this year.

The event reportedly featured a well-known religious preacher and was attended by several prominent personalities, including senior members associated with the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and local public representatives.

Authorities are examining the expenditure incurred on the event as part of the broader financial probe.

How the accused allegedly joined the donation counting team

According to investigators, Anukalp joined the Ram Temple donation counting team around three years ago through a bank's outsourcing agency.

Police allege that he later facilitated the induction of his brother-in-law, Lavkush Mishra, into the same team.

Lavkush, who currently lives in a rented house, is also reported to have recently purchased a motorcycle worth more than Rs 1 lakh. Investigators are examining his financial records as well.

Police are analysing bank accounts, property records, financial transactions and other assets belonging to all eight accused in an effort to establish the alleged money trail.

The investigation follows the registration of an FIR over the alleged theft and misappropriation of donations from the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, one of India's most prominent religious sites.

Officials have stated that the probe remains ongoing and that further action will depend on the evidence collected during the financial investigation.