Ayodhya, July 5. Nearly two months after the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust’s offering theft controversy and his resignation from the post of General Secretary, former General Secretary Champat Rai was seen in public for the first time in Ayodhya on Tuesday. He reached Tapasvi Cantonment, located about two kilometers away from the Ram Temple, where he met Jagadguru Paramhans Acharya in a closed room. When media persons tried to take his photographs and videos while entering the Tapasvi Cantonment, Champat Rai gestured with his finger and asked his colleagues to turn off the cameras. During this time he did not talk to the media.
‘Ayodhya will remain my residence till my last breath’
After the meeting, Jagadguru Paramhansa Acharya stated that Champat Rai has clearly stated that no matter where he travels, his permanent residence will remain Ayodhya, where he will remain until his last breath. Supporting Champat Rai, Paramhansa Acharya stated that some people are opposing him due to political interests, while he is respected throughout the Sanatan society.
Resigned after offering theft controversy
The theft of offerings at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust came to light on June 6, 2026. Following the escalation of the controversy, Champat Rai resigned as General Secretary on June 26. His resignation was accepted at the Trust’s meeting on July 6. Currently, retired IFS officer Krishna Mohan is serving as Acting General Secretary.
Decision on new General Secretary possible in the meeting on September 2
The next meeting of the Trust is scheduled for September 2nd. According to sources, senior Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader Bajrang Lal Bagda may be appointed the new General Secretary of the Trust. The process of selecting the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ram Temple is also underway. Over 5,000 applications have been received for this position, including former IPS officer Amitabh Thakur. Three of these names will be shortlisted for final selection.
8 accused in theft case sent to jail
A total of eight accused, including Champat Rai’s former driver Ramshankar Yadav alias Tinnu, have been arrested in the offering theft case. All of the accused are currently lodged in Faizabad jail.