Supreme Court Order on Ayodhya Ram Temple: New SIT Formed, Forensic Auditor to Join Probe
The Supreme Court of India has taken strict cognizance of the alleged embezzlement and theft of offerings made at the sacred Ayodhya Ram Temple. During a crucial hearing held on Monday, July 27, 2026, a bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, reviewed the progress of the investigation. In response to the apex court's earlier directions, the Uttar Pradesh government officially presented details regarding the formation of a reconstituted Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure a transparent, speedy, and impartial inquiry into the matter.
Supreme Court Directs Inclusion of Forensic Auditor in SIT
During the proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing on behalf of the Uttar Pradesh government, briefed the bench that the newly structured SIT has been set up following a notification issued on July 25. The high-level investigation team is headed by Lucknow Range Inspector General of Police (IG) Kiran S. The multi-member panel also includes Ayodhya Range Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Somen Barma and Ayodhya Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dr. Gaurav Grover.
Taking note of the team's composition, the Supreme Court further recommended expanding its technical capabilities. The bench directed the state government to induct a specialized forensic auditor as the fifth member of the SIT to thoroughly scrutinize financial trails, digital accounts, and donation records. Furthermore, the top court has instructed the newly minted investigation team to submit its comprehensive status report within two weeks.
CJI Emphasizes Fair and Impartial Investigation
Reiterating the necessity of a pristine judicial process, Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasized that the primary focus of the court and investigators is to guarantee a fair, speedy, and qualitative investigation into the incident. The bench firmly stated that all necessary remedial steps are being implemented to secure total institutional transparency. Cautioning against unnecessary politicization of the legal proceedings, the apex court adjourned the hearing for two weeks, assuring devotees and the public that the investigation will be carried to its logical conclusion without compromise.
