Big Update: Confusion Over Champat Rai’s Arrival as High-Stakes Session Set to Begin

A crucial meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is set to begin in Ayodhya amid intense public and political scrutiny over the alleged Ram Temple donation theft case. Initial reports suggested that Trust General Secretary Champat Rai had arrived at the Ram Temple premises to attend the meeting, easing speculation that he might skip the session. However, a subsequent update indicated that the individual who had reached the venue was Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader Dinesh, while Champat Rai had not yet arrived, creating confusion over his participation. Sources indicate that senior trustee Anil Mishra is expected to follow Champat Rai's lead regarding his attendance. If Champat Rai joins the meeting, Anil Mishra is also likely to participate. The meeting is expected to begin once Trust President Mahant Nritya Gopal Das arrives to chair the proceedings. Most trustees have already reached the venue, while some nominated and ex-officio members are expected to participate virtually or have confirmed that they will not attend. Former Cabinet Secretary Nripendra Misra has already confirmed that he will not be part of the meeting. Senior advocate K. Parasaran, one of the founding trustees, is expected to join online, while uncertainty remains over the participation of certain government-nominated members. The meeting is expected to deliberate on the resignations of Champat Rai and Anil Mishra following the donation theft controversy. Sources suggest that both resignations are likely to be accepted, although an official decision will be taken only after discussions among the trustees. Attention is also focused on the future leadership of the Trust. Trustee Krishna Mohan, a retired Indian Forest Service officer who joined the Trust after the demise of a former member, is being viewed as a key figure who could assume greater administrative responsibilities if the resignations are accepted. With the Trust under unprecedented scrutiny, the outcome of the meeting is expected to play a crucial role in determining its future administrative structure and response to the ongoing controversy.