Ananya Lohia , Ayodhya - The Faizabad Bar Association has resolved not to represent any accused in the alleged embezzlement of funds linked to the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. During a general body meeting on Monday, the association warned that any lawyer taking up the defence of the accused would face a fine of ₹5 lakh.

The lawyers also demanded that former Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra office-bearers Champat Rai, Anil Mishra and Gopal Rao should not leave Ayodhya within three days, threatening protests if their demand is ignored. The association further announced plans to move court seeking registration of a case against the three and a probe by the CBI.

The decision comes amid an ongoing SIT-monitored investigation into allegations of theft and irregularities involving temple donations. So far, eight people have been arrested in the case, while statements of key individuals linked to the trust have also been recorded.

The temple trust has denied allegations of misappropriation, stating that devotees' donations remain safe and fully accounted for. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has declined an urgent hearing on a plea seeking a probe into the matter, saying it will consider the case after the summer break.