Ayodhya, July 29: The Ram Mandir theft probe has gathered pace after the Supreme Court directed the formation of a new Special Investigation Team to examine allegations of irregularities in temple offerings. Investigators are now preparing to question former trustee Dr Anil Mishra as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Officials said statements of bank personnel involved in counting temple offerings have already been recorded. The SIT has also begun recording statements from office bearers of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
According to officials, the process of issuing a notice to Dr Anil Mishra has begun. Investigators are expected to question him based on banking records, documents and other evidence collected during the investigation.
Sources said other Trust office bearers, including Gopal Rao, may also be questioned if required.
On July 20, the Supreme Court directed the Uttar Pradesh government to constitute a new SIT under the supervision of senior IPS officers to conduct a comprehensive investigation.
The state government subsequently formed a three member SIT headed by Inspector General Kiran S. The team also includes Ayodhya Range Deputy Inspector General Somen Verma and Senior Superintendent of Police Dr Gaurav Grover.
Officials said the SIT is collecting documentary evidence and proceeding with the investigation in a systematic manner, although a formal meeting of the newly constituted team has not yet been held.
Meanwhile, during a special meeting on July 22, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust decided to defer the appointment of its first Chief Executive Officer by about a month.
The Trust also appointed a spokesperson to strengthen communication and approved the appointment of a full time General Secretary. In addition, it decided to reconstitute its religious committee to preserve the traditional practices and sanctity of rituals at the Ram Temple.
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