Ground Report From Ayodhya: Ram Mandir Donation Theft Row Hits Local Business And Pilgrim Footfall

The alleged theft of donations at Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir is beginning to affect confidence beyond the criminal investigation. Traders, hotel staff and e-rickshaw drivers say pilgrim footfall and spending around Ram Mandir, Hanuman Garhi and Kanak Bhawan have declined, though official tourism data is still awaited. Devotees insist their faith remains strong but want greater transparency and accountability in donation management. Locals also acknowledge that extreme summer heat may have contributed to the slowdown. Investigators estimate that donations worth nearly ₹7.9 crore were siphoned off, while the SIT continues examining security lapses and the wider network linked to the accused.