Ram Temple trust unlikely to finalise first CEO as screening process remains incomplete
New Delhi, July 22
Amid the offering embezzlement row, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Wednesday is scheduled to hold a key meeting in Ayodhya to deliberate on administrative reforms, including the appointment of the Ram Temple's first Chief Executive Officer and the filling of three vacant positions in the Trust. However, sources said a final decision on the CEO's appointment was unlikely as the screening process for applicants remains incomplete.
According to sources, the three-member expert committee constituted to recommend candidates for the newly created CEO post has received a large number of applications, making it difficult to complete the screening process within the stipulated time.
As a result, the committee is unlikely to submit the final shortlist of three candidates before the Trust meeting, delaying the selection of the temple's first professional CEO.
The decision to create the CEO post was taken during the Trust's meeting earlier on July 6, following allegations of theft involving temple offerings. The Trust had then decided to introduce a professional administrative structure to strengthen the temple's management, improve financial transparency, enhance security arrangements and streamline facilities for devotees.
Once appointed, the CEO will be responsible for the temple's day-to-day administration, implementation of management decisions and supervision of staff. The CEO will also be empowered, with the Trust's approval, to appoint the secretary and other personnel required for the temple's administration.
Apart from the CEO appointment, the Trust also discussed filling three vacant positions. One vacancy arose following the death of trustee Bimlendra Mohan Pratap Mishra, former head of the Ayodhya royal family, while the other two were created after the resignations of former General Secretary Champat Rai and former trustee Dr. Anil Mishra.
Asked whether Krishna Mohan, who was appointed acting General Secretary at the previous Trust meeting, would now be made the permanent General Secretary, Mahant Dinendra Das said no decision had been communicated to members.
"As of now, we do not have any information. Whoever is appointed should have good conduct and character, with no involvement in theft or any criminal activity. They should always maintain transparency, regularly present accounts, and keep society informed. Such a person is fit for the role," he said.
According to sources, Krishna Mohan remains a strong contender to be appointed the Trust's permanent General Secretary. Meanwhile, discussions are also underway regarding the vacant trustee posts, with names such as VHP National General Secretary B.L. Bangda reportedly being considered.
The outcome of the Trust's deliberations is expected to shape the future administrative structure of the Ram Temple as it seeks to strengthen governance and accountability following recent controversies.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Why does everything have to be so slow? This is a historic temple and devotees expect transparency. The screening committee could have at least given an interim report. Feels like the same old bureaucratic delays in a new avatar.
Mahant Dinendra Das's comment about appointing someone with 'good conduct and character' is exactly what we need. The theft allegations have shaken faith. Let's hope they choose wisely and bring in someone who can restore confidence in the temple management.
I'm glad they're filling the vacant trustee posts too. The resignation of Champat Rai and Dr. Anil Mishra left a gap. The VHP's B.L. Bangda being considered is interesting - he has experience but also brings political baggage. Hope the Trust focuses on competence over connections.
Finally some professional management coming in! The CEO role is long overdue. With lakhs of devotees visiting daily, the temple needs proper administration, not just religious oversight. The theft allegations were a wake-up call. Good move by the Trust 👏
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