New Delhi: Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra General Secretary Champat Rai was allegedly given an ultimatum to step down from his post or face removal by the trust amid the ongoing Ram Mandir donation theft controversy, sources told Times Now Digital.
According to sources, Rai was informed that if he did not resign voluntarily, the trust would publicly announce his removal.
Ram Mandir 'Donation Theft' Case Sources: RSS backed Champat's exit – 'RSS sought immediate resignation' – 'Champat Rai resisted till Friday' – 'Rai was warned of public announcement' – 'Step down or be removed message sent' @WalterAdeeb shares more details… pic.twitter.com/k3tuHrYUiG
— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) June 28, 2026
The development comes as scrutiny intensifies over the alleged embezzlement of donations meant for the Ram Mandir and the role of those responsible for managing the temple’s finances.
‘Step Down or Be Removed’
Sources said the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) had favoured Rai’s resignation soon after allegations of financial irregularities surfaced.
However, Rai allegedly resisted calls to step down until Friday night. On Saturday, he was reportedly conveyed a final message that he should resign or face public removal from the trust.
According to sources, the warning came after internal discussions over the fallout from the donation theft case.
Champat Rai To Present His Side
Sources further said Rai is expected to address the media after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) submits its final report later this month. He is likely to present his version of events and respond to questions surrounding the alleged donation embezzlement.
The controversy centres around allegations that cash donations made to the Ram Mandir were siphoned off by individuals entrusted with handling temple funds.
Investigators are probing the alleged role of Nenu Yadav, who was reportedly involved in collecting and counting donations and is said to have been closely associated with Champat Rai.
According to sources, questions have been raised over whether such alleged irregularities could have taken place without the knowledge of senior trust functionaries.
Sources also claimed that when the allegations first surfaced, Rai had maintained that the trust would examine the matter internally. However, demands for an independent investigation grew after opposition leaders raised the issue publicly.
The Special Investigation Team is expected to submit its second and final report later this month. Sources said investigators are examining whether any further action is warranted against those linked to the alleged embezzlement. It remains to be seen whether the SIT names Champat Rai in its findings or recommends additional questioning. There has been no official statement from Champat Rai, the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust or the RSS on the claims made by sources.