Anotable number of retired bureaucrats have submitted applications to become the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
The deadline for applications concluded on Saturday. This recruitment comes amid investigations into alleged misappropriation of donations for the Ram Temple, as the Trust aims to enhance financial oversight and improve administrative operations. Following inquiries into the alleged embezzlement of donations, the Trust is working to tighten financial monitoring, strengthen institutional accountability, and streamline the temple’s daily operations; the newly created CEO position will play a crucial role in these efforts.
Expert Panel to Review Applications
Strong Response for CEO Applications
A senior member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust stated that they received a very positive response. Many applicants sent their resumes directly, but these were returned with instructions to submit them to the expert panel, as only this panel has the authority to vet applications before suggesting names to the Trust. The largest group of applicants consists of retired bureaucrats. According to eligibility criteria, current government officials in their last two years, retired officials, and qualified professionals from the private sector can apply. An insider revealed that the three-member expert panel is tasked solely with reviewing applications and preparing a shortlist, while the final decision on appointments will rest with the Trust. The committee will evaluate the applications and recommend suitable candidates, although it is unlikely that more than three candidates will be recommended by the panel. This expert committee includes retired Justice Pramod Kohli, retired Lieutenant General Vishnukant Chaturvedi, and former NIT Raipur chairperson Suresh Haware.
Screening Process and Timeline
Application Deadline and Screening Process
The final deadline for applications is set for Saturday at 4 PM, after which the panel will commence candidate screening. They have approximately one month to complete this process. In addition to assessing qualifications and experience, the panel may also conduct face-to-face interviews with shortlisted candidates before submitting their recommendations. Sources indicate that the Trust may engage in separate discussions before selecting its first CEO. It is anticipated that the appointment process will proceed only after the Trust is fully constituted. Following the resignations of Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, Krishna Mohan was appointed as the interim secretary, bringing the total number of members to 13. Trustee Vimalendra Mohan Pratap Mishra passed away last year. Sources suggest that the Trust’s meeting scheduled for July 22 may address filling the vacant positions.