The Faizabad Bar Association has unanimously resolved that its members will not appear for the eight persons arrested in the alleged embezzlement of donations offered at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The resolution was passed during the Association's general body meeting on June 29 amid the ongoing investigation into the alleged misappropriation of temple offerings.
Background of the Case
The eight accused are in judicial custody after being arrested based on the preliminary findings of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). The case concerns alleged misappropriation of cash and valuables donated by devotees at the Ram Temple. Police have also searched the residences of the accused as part of the continuing investigation.
Earlier, the Supreme Court declined an urgent hearing on a plea seeking a court-monitored probe, observing,
"There is no urgency warranting out-of-turn listing,"
and said the matter would be considered in July.
The Association resolved that none of its members would represent the accused. It further stated that if any advocate chooses to appear for them, the advocate must seek prior permission from the Association and deposit ₹5 lakh per accused as a contribution.
Association President Advocate Kalika Prasad Mishra said the collected amount would be used to assist the prosecution. He also stated that the Association would pursue legal remedies, including seeking a CBI investigation if pending petitions before the Allahabad High Court do not result in such a direction.
The resolution also called upon former Trust office-bearers Champat Rai, Anil Mishra and Accounts Officer Gopal Rao to leave Ayodhya within three days, failing which the lawyers proposed a blockade.
The Bar Association formally adopted the resolution declining legal representation to the eight accused while the criminal investigation into the alleged donation embezzlement continues. The accused remain in judicial custody, and related petitions concerning an independent investigation are pending before the Allahabad High Court.
