The Ayodhya Ram Temple has faced allegations of financial irregularities involving donations, jewellery, gold and other offerings from devotees. Legal petitions seek an independent probe, while the temple trust denies wrongdoing. The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a three-member SIT to investigate the claims.
The Supreme Court held that loss of case records cannot justify keeping a criminal investigation pending indefinitely, expressing concern over a nearly two-decade delay. Setting aside the Gujarat High Court’s order, it directed Gujarat Police to complete the investigation within six weeks to protect the right to a speedy trial.
The Allahabad High Court criticised Uttar Pradesh Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad for allegedly obstructing police reform measures and investigative safeguards, observing that resistance by administrative authorities risks undermining judicial directions, accountability mechanisms, and efforts to strengthen the criminal justice system.
The Supreme Court of India observed that if every religious practice or ritual is challenged before constitutional courts, it could lead to excessive litigation, weakening religions and affecting India’s civilizational fabric, while stressing that religion remains deeply connected with the country’s social structure.
