Indian police are investigating the theft of donations from the famous Ram Temple in Ayodhya, a case that has raised new concerns about transparency in managing large sums of money and gold at religious sites. The investigation began in June, and eight people have been arrested so far. Although authorities have not disclosed the exact amount stolen, media reports estimate it at around 30 million rupees, or roughly 314,000 US dollars.

The incident has reignited debate over accountability in temple finances. Devotees expressed frustration that money given in faith could be misused, while Hindu activist Rahul Easwar called for digital accounting, CCTV monitoring, and independent oversight in religious institutions. Similar scandals have previously occurred at Badrinath Temple and the wealthy Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam trust.

The Ram Temple, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2024, attracts about 90,000 visitors daily and receives large donations in cash and jewelry. Legal experts note that India lacks a unified national framework for regulating religious institutions, leading to inconsistent oversight across states.