The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has widened its investigation into the financial affairs of the Ram Temple Trust, bringing more than Rs 124 crore worth of expenditures under scrutiny. The probe now covers several high-profile religious events organised by the Trust over the past two years, including the Ram Lalla consecration ceremony, the Maha Kumbh arrangements, and the Ram Temple flag-hoisting ceremony.
According to sources, investigators are conducting a detailed audit of the Trust’s financial records to verify whether the expenditure was carried out in accordance with prescribed financial procedures, approvals and accounting norms. The investigation follows the ongoing scrutiny into the Trust’s financial management and is expected to examine every major payment made for these large-scale events.
Ram Temple Consecration Expenses Under Investigation
The largest expenditure under the SIT’s scanner is the Rs 113 crore spent on the grand consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla held on January 22, 2024. The event, attended by nearly 8,000 guests, marked one of the most significant religious occasions in recent Indian history.
According to audit documents being examined by investigators, a substantial portion of the spending went towards infrastructure and event management. Around Rs 35.97 crore was spent on constructing sheds and developing tent city facilities for visitors and guests.
Another Rs 30.85 crore was allocated for the nationwide Akshat Pujan campaign, while Rs 21.77 crore was utilised for publicity and promotional activities. Decorative arrangements and lighting accounted for an additional Rs 14.62 crore.
Other expenditures included Rs 5.11 crore for food arrangements at the Ann Kshetra, Rs 1.06 crore for religious rituals, Rs 93 lakh for devotional music performances, Rs 68 lakh on sound systems, and Rs 43 lakh each on electricity and Mandal Pujan. Miscellaneous preparations reportedly cost another Rs 51 lakh.
The SIT is now verifying whether these expenses received the required approvals and whether payments were made according to the Trust’s financial regulations.
Ram Temple Events And Maha Kumbh Spending Also Examined
The investigation is not limited to the consecration ceremony.
Officials are also reviewing expenditure related to the first Pratishtha Dwadashi celebrations, organised between January 11 and 13, 2025. Trust records indicate that approximately Rs 83 lakh was spent during the event, with Rs 52 lakh allocated solely for lighting and decorative arrangements.
In addition, investigators are examining Rs 43 lakh spent on facilities for devotees during the Maha Kumbh.
Another major focus is the Ram Temple flag-hoisting ceremony held on November 25, 2025. According to Trust records, this event cost approximately Rs 10.12 crore and was attended by nearly 6,000 guests, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Sources indicate that the SIT is examining whether expenditure approvals, payment processes and financial documentation complied with the Trust’s established procedures. Based on available records, the average expenditure for the event worked out to roughly Rs 16,000 per guest, a figure now being closely examined during the investigation.
Financial Records Under Detailed Audit
As part of the expanded probe, the SIT is conducting a comprehensive review of the Trust’s financial documents covering the past two years.
Investigators are examining audit reports, chartered accountant records, expenditure statements, payment vouchers and bills to ensure every transaction can be properly accounted for.
Officials are verifying whether the spending was authorised through appropriate approvals and whether all payments were made under the correct financial heads.
The investigation also seeks to determine whether detailed financial statements relating to these major events were presented before Trust meetings as required under internal governance procedures.
Gold And Silver Donations Also Verified
Apart from expenditure, the SIT is reviewing records relating to donations made to Ram Lalla.
According to Trust documents, devotees donated approximately 2.3 kilograms of gold and 83.3 kilograms of silver between November 2024 and February 2025.
During the Maha Kumbh, additional offerings included 1.5 kilograms of gold and 28 kilograms of silver.
Investigators are cross-checking inventory records, storage arrangements and documentation to verify the current status of these valuable donations and ensure proper record-keeping.
Probe Focuses On Financial Compliance
The ongoing investigation is primarily centred on financial compliance rather than the religious events themselves.
By examining expenditure records, approval processes and donation documentation, the SIT aims to determine whether the Ram Temple Trust adhered to its prescribed financial regulations while organising these large-scale events.
As the audit progresses, investigators are expected to continue reviewing payment records and governance procedures before reaching any conclusions regarding the utilisation of Trust funds. The outcome of the investigation could provide greater clarity on the financial management of one of the country’s most closely watched religious institutions.
