Amid the ongoing investigation in the Ram Mandir donation theft case, fresh claims reveal that job at the temple may have been sold in exchange of money.
Investigators are looking into nearly 125 appointments made at the temple and trying to determine whether some candidates secured jobs by paying money. At the same time, authorities are considering invoking the Gangster Act against the accused, seeking custody of a key suspect and examining properties linked to the case.
Police Probe Alleged ‘Jobs for Cash’ Racket
The most recent investigation has diverted its attention away from the theft of temple donations.
It is investigating whether there was a racket in place for recruitment of people within the temple management system through which money was collected for hiring purposes.
It has been stated by the investigation authorities that about 125 persons were hired for different positions at the temple. It is being verified now whether these persons have been hired according to the right procedure or not.
Gangster Act May Be Invoked Against Accused
Police are also exploring stricter legal action against those already arrested in the donation theft case.
Officials said legal opinion is being sought on invoking the Gangster Act against all the accused.
If approved, the move could significantly strengthen the investigation by allowing authorities to initiate proceedings for the attachment of properties and assets allegedly acquired through illegal means.
Police Seek Custody of Key Accused
The investigators want to get the accused person, Avinash Shukla, into the custody of the police for 48 hours in order to review his financial activities and his connections with other accused individuals.
It was during the court proceedings when Avinash Shukla told the court that he did not have legal aid.
The court then ordered that legal aid should be provided to him before any further proceedings could be made.
Whether the police will get the custody or not will soon be decided by the court.
In another development, the local Bar Association is preparing to file a complaint at the Ram Janmabhoomi police station. Officials are also examining whether this development could support future proceedings related to the attachment of assets belonging to the accused.
Illegal Construction Comes Under Scanner
The probe into the assets purportedly held by some of those who have been accused has also progressed.
The Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) has issued a notice with regard to the construction of a structure in the name of the wife of one of the accused, Lav Kush Mishra.
As per the authorities, the construction work has reportedly been observed as violating the approved guidelines for construction.
The Authorities have requested the owner of the property to produce documents showing if the construction plans were approved.
SIT Expected to Review Investigation in Ayodhya
Sources said the three-member SIT is expected to meet senior officials in Lucknow before travelling to Ayodhya to review the progress of the investigation.
The team is likely to examine evidence recovered during recent raids, including documents, cash, financial records and other materials seized by investigators.
The SIT will also review statements recorded from the accused and assess the findings collected by Ayodhya Police since the FIR was registered.
Officials said the SIT remains in regular contact with the Ayodhya Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) as the investigation continues.