'Cash hidden in socks': Recovered CCTV may reveal how Ayodhya donations were 'siphoned off'

LUCKNOW: Investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations from the Ram Temple intensified on Sunday as Ayodhya police questioned five jailed accused and advanced analysis of electronic evidence, with forensic teams recovering deleted CCTV footage that allegedly shows cash being removed during the donation-counting process.Highly placed sources said forensic experts and IT specialists retrieved video clips that had earlier been erased from the system. The footage reportedly captures some of the accused concealing currency notes in their socks and pockets while handling cash inside the counting area. Investigators are now working to enhance the quality of the recovered video because faces are not clearly visible, sources added.Police believe that, if authenticated, the footage could provide critical proof of the alleged method used to siphon off money without triggering immediate detection.A police team led by circle officer Ashutosh Tiwari reached Ayodhya District Jail around 1.50 pm to interrogate five accused who are in judicial custody. The accused questioned were identified as Ramashankar Mishra, Manish Yadav, Lavkush Mishra, Anukalp Mishra and Karunesh Pandey. Sources familiar with the questioning said investigators sought details on the alleged division of the stolen amount, the specific roles of each suspect, and how cash may have been moved out of the counting room. Police have previously questioned three other accused in earlier rounds.In a precautionary step, jail authorities shifted all the accused to separate barracks on Saturday after they had earlier been housed together. Sources said the move was prompted by concerns that the men could either assault each other or coordinate their statements and attempt to influence the inquiry.Investigators are continuing to reconstruct the alleged money trail by examining bank transactions, digital records and statements, while cross-checking claims against witness accounts and financial documentation. Police are also examining allegations that cash was repeatedly smuggled out by being hidden in socks and clothing to evade routine scrutiny.The developments come ahead of a meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, where administrative and financial reforms to the donation management system are expected to be discussed. Sources indicated the Special Investigation Team is likely to submit its findings after July 15, after which further legal action could follow if additional culpability is established. Police have not officially confirmed the contents of the recovered footage, and the probe remains ongoing.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Lucknow | Silver Rate in Lucknow | Bank Holidays in Lucknow | Public Holidays in Lucknow | Lucknow AQI | Weather in Lucknow | Petrol Price in Lucknow | Diesel Price in Lucknow | CNG Price in Lucknow | LPG Price in LucknowStay updated with the latest Lucknow news. Download the TOI App.