Candidates interviewing for the first full-time chief executive officer position at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust faced an extensive evaluation process in Ayodhya on Tuesday, according to people familiar with the matter. The selection process for the highest executive authority of the Trust involved answering questions about their religious practices, lifestyle habits, and vision for the Ram Temple after allegations of financial mismanagement and donation embezzlement emerged.
Application Screening and Questionnaires
The 18 candidates shortlisted from a pool of 5,200 applicants completed a 34-point Google form before attending the interview in Ayodhya. According to sources speaking on condition of anonymity, the questionnaire inquired whether applicants keep a shikha, wear a janeu, consume non-vegetarian food or alcohol, consider themselves staunch Hindus, and feel comfortable wearing traditional Hindu attire. The form also reviewed work histories, crowd management experience, and family backgrounds.
Following an initial online screening, eight candidates participated in Tuesday’s face-to-face interviews, which included four former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers. Each interview lasted approximately one to two hours, designed to evaluate administrative capacity alongside devotion, temperament, and strategic vision for the high-profile temple project.
Did You Know? The decision to appoint a full-time chief executive officer followed allegations of donation embezzlement that resulted in eight arrests and the departure of three officials, including former general secretary Champat Rai.
Probable Candidates and Backgrounds
While the complete list of shortlisted candidates remains private, sources confirmed that former Uttar Pradesh Police inspector general Rajesh Pandey is among the applicants scheduled for an in-person interview on Wednesday. Pandey previously served as Lucknow’s senior superintendent of police, helped found the UP Special Task Force, and acts as secretary for Lucknow’s Hanuman Mandir in Aliganj.
Retired IAS officer Yogeshwar Mishra, who served as Faizabad district magistrate in 2016 and later as Gonda divisional commissioner, neither confirmed nor denied his inclusion on the shortlist. The selection committee—consisting of former Supreme Court judge Justice Pramod Kohli, retired Lieutenant General Vishnukant Chaturvedi, and Suresh Haware—must submit three names to the Trust before September 2.
Expert Insight: The rigorous vetting process reflects an effort to align administrative capability with strict religious and ideological alignment for a monumental shrine managing millions of pilgrims. Supervision from national leadership indicates that institutional stability and oversight remain top priorities following recent financial controversies.
Administrative Responsibilities and Oversight
The appointed CEO will direct the statutory, financial, and administrative operations of the Trust. Responsibilities include handling infrastructure for millions of pilgrims, coordinating security with central and state agencies, and supervising daily rituals and festivals.
A senior Trust member stated that the final selection and future staffing decisions within the CEO’s office are expected to operate under the direct supervision of the Centre and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The leadership choice will reflect figures acceptable to both government and Sangh authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the appointment of a full-time CEO?
The Trust decided to appoint a full-time chief executive officer following allegations of donation embezzlement that led to financial scrutiny, eight arrests, and the resignation of three officials, including former general secretary Champat Rai.
Who sits on the selection panel for the CEO position?
The selection committee comprises former Supreme Court judge Justice Pramod Kohli, retired Lt Gen Vishnukant Chaturvedi, and Suresh Haware.
What are the primary responsibilities of the CEO?
The CEO will serve as the highest executive authority, managing statutory, financial, and administrative functions, building pilgrim infrastructure, coordinating security with state and central agencies, and ensuring the smooth conduct of temple rituals and festivals.
How do you view the integration of strict administrative oversight with traditional religious requirements for high-profile temple management?
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