The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has announced a significant leadership change, accepting the resignation of its general secretary, Champat Rai. The decision comes amidst an active investigation into alleged theft of funds donated to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Bajrang Bagra has been unanimously appointed as the new general secretary.
Leadership Change Amid Probe
Rai's resignation, submitted on June 26, was formally accepted during a crucial meeting held on the temple premises. This development follows intensified scrutiny and an ongoing probe by both local police and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) into financial irregularities concerning temple donations.
Authorities have arrested eight individuals in connection with the alleged theft, including Rai's driver, Ramashankar Yadav. While statements from Rai, trust member Anil Mishra (who also resigned), and Gopal Rao have been recorded, no First Information Report (FIR) has been filed against them.
The Uttar Pradesh state government had formed a three-member SIT on June 13, following a formal inquiry request from the Trust itself. The recent meeting, convened by trust treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri and chaired by president Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, reviewed the SIT's interim findings, discussed proposed governance reforms, and planned for future temple management.
Who is Bajrang Bagra?
Bajrang Bagra, a Chartered Accountant by profession, steps into the role of general secretary. Hailing from Sikar district in Rajasthan, Bagra currently serves as the International General Secretary of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), a position he assumed in February 2024. His career includes significant leadership roles in the public sector, notably as Chairman and Managing Director of National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), a Navratna public sector undertaking.
Prior to his full-time engagement with the VHP, Bagra held positions such as Director (Finance) and Chief Financial Officer at NALCO and RITES Ltd. After taking voluntary retirement from NALCO, he became deeply involved with the VHP, holding various key organizational roles including Joint General Secretary, and serving as president and CEO of the Ekal Abhiyan.