The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has undergone a leadership overhaul, naming retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra as its first-ever full-time chief executive officer. Alongside his appointment, the trust’s treasurer, Swami Govind Dev Giri, has been elevated to general secretary to take over day-to-day executive responsibilities for temple administration. The reshuffle follows the resignation of Champat Rai from the general secretary post after allegations surfaced regarding irregularities in the trust’s financial affairs and donation management.
Trust officials framed the changes as a natural evolution as the temple moves from construction to daily operations and expansion into a major religious and tourism hub. However, the appointment has become politically charged, with opposition Samajwadi Party leader Ramji Lal Suman alleging a “scam” under the earlier management, demanding accountability, and noting that a state-appointed special investigation team had looked into the matter. Other reactions emerged from religious and political figures, including in Bihar, with some welcoming Mishra’s military credentials.
The leadership change comes at a sensitive time for the trust, which manages public donations and has faced periodic transparency scrutiny since the temple’s consecration. It remains unclear if the earlier financial allegations will face further formal investigation or result in official findings, highlighting how the temple remains entangled in India’s broader political contests.