Young Man Arrested for Alleged Misappropriation of Funds at Ram Temple in Ayodhya

Ayodhya, July 1: The investigation into the donation scandal at the Ram Temple has intensified. Police have arrested a young man named Avinash Shukla, who faces serious allegations of misusing and embezzling funds linked to the temple trust.

According to reports, Avinash Shukla was associated with a yoga center in the Kaushalpuri Phase-2 area of Ayodhya, where he had been residing for some time. This yoga center has been operational for over two decades and has served numerous students and needy individuals, as stated by yoga instructor Seema Tiwari. Avinash was introduced to the center through his brother, Abhishek Shukla.

Seema Tiwari shared with a news agency that Abhishek joined the center nearly ten years ago in a financially precarious situation. The guru not only provided him with education but also arranged for his accommodation and meals. After securing a job, Abhishek brought his younger brother, Avinash, to the center. Reports indicate that Avinash learned about a job opportunity at the Ram Temple about a year and a half ago.

In connection with the case, it was reported that on June 5, police conducted raids at the yoga center and related locations. During the search, Avinash Shukla was taken into custody for questioning. The police investigation revealed that over 2 million rupees in cash was allegedly recovered from Avinash’s rented residence. However, official confirmation will be provided only after further investigation.

Seema Tiwari mentioned that she learned about the entire situation through social media and news outlets. She had no prior knowledge of Avinash’s alleged involvement in any embezzlement. CCTV footage from the premises captured the events of June 5, which later clarified the situation.

Meanwhile, sevadars (volunteers) like Sundarlal noted that Abhishek initially joined the center for education and training before securing a job as a primary school teacher. He later brought Avinash, who previously ran a water bottle stall near the temple and did odd jobs. Reports suggest that Avinash was later employed to count money for the temple trust.

According to police sources, the investigation is ongoing, focusing on financial transactions, employment records, and thorough examination of CCTV footage. Officials have stated that legal actions will be taken based on all aspects of the case.

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