The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is unlikely to finalise the appointment of the Ram Temple’s first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at its meeting in Ayodhya on Wednesday, as the expert panel tasked with selecting candidates has not completed the screening process, sources said.
The meeting comes as the Trust considers a series of administrative reforms following allegations of embezzlement involving temple offerings. Along with the proposed CEO appointment, members are expected to discuss filling three vacant positions within the Trust.
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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. The volume of submissions has delayed scrutiny, making it unlikely that the panel will submit the final shortlist of three names before Wednesday’s meeting.
Without the committee’s recommendations, the Trust is not expected to take a final call on appointing its first professional CEO.
The decision to create the CEO post was taken at the Trust’s July 6 meeting after allegations of theft linked to temple offerings surfaced. The Trust said the move was aimed at introducing a professional administrative structure to improve financial transparency, strengthen security and streamline facilities for devotees.
Once appointed, the CEO will oversee the temple’s day-to-day administration, implement decisions taken by the Trust and supervise staff. With the Trust’s approval, the CEO will also have the authority to appoint the temple’s secretary and other administrative personnel.
Three vacancies also under consideration
The Trust is also expected to discuss filling three vacant positions.
One vacancy arose after the death of trustee Bimlendra Mohan Pratap Mishra, the former head of the Ayodhya royal family. The other two vacancies were created following the resignations of former General Secretary Champat Rai and former trustee Dr Anil Mishra.
Asked whether Krishna Mohan, who is currently serving as acting General Secretary, would be confirmed in the role permanently, 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.
Sources said Krishna Mohan remains a leading contender for the post of permanent General Secretary.
Discussions are also expected on the vacant trustee positions, with VHP National General Secretary BL Bangda among the names being considered, according to sources.
The Trust’s decisions are expected to shape the next phase of the Ram Temple’s administrative framework as it looks to strengthen governance and accountability.