'Stop Donating Cash & Jewellery': Mukesh Khanna's Appeal as Ayodhya Donation Probe Widens

Reacting to the ongoing investigation into the alleged misappropriation of donations linked to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, veteran actor Mukesh Khanna urged devotees to refrain from offering cash and jewellery at religious places. He said that faith should remain above financial transactions and suggested that devotees instead contribute through service, food distribution, or other charitable activities to ensure their offerings reach those in need. Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has intensified its probe into the alleged donation scam. According to the investigation so far, around 70 suspected thefts of cash and offerings were reported within nearly 40 days, leading to the registration of an FIR against eight accused. During multiple raids, investigators recovered more than ₹77 lakh in cash, gold and silver ornaments, foreign currency, and a donation box labelled "Ramrajya Kosh" carrying a QR code, prompting further scrutiny into the handling of devotees' contributions. The SIT has also expanded its investigation to examine the role of bank officials associated with processing temple donations and has been granted additional time to complete the probe. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court declined an urgent hearing on a plea seeking a CBI investigation, observing that the matter should proceed through the regular legal process. The investigation remains ongoing.