The Supreme Court on Monday refused an urgent hearing on a petition related to the alleged theft of funds from the Ayodhya Ram temple trust. A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Sheel Nagu observed that the matter could wait until after the summer break, remarking that the 'heavens are not going to fall'.
Court's Stance on Urgency
The bench told the petitioner's counsel that the case would be listed for hearing after the summer vacation. The court's response came when the counsel pressed for an early hearing, citing the gravity of the allegations involving the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
According to sources, the petition alleges misappropriation of funds collected for the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The trust, which oversees the temple construction, has denied any wrongdoing.
Background of the Case
The dispute over fund management emerged earlier this year when a complaint was filed claiming that a significant amount of donations had been diverted. The temple trust maintains that all financial transactions are transparent and audited regularly.
The Supreme Court's decision to defer the hearing means the matter will likely be taken up in July, after the court reopens from its summer recess. The bench did not issue any interim orders or directions.
Reactions and Implications
Legal experts noted that the court's refusal to grant an urgent hearing indicates it does not see the matter as requiring immediate intervention. The trust has welcomed the decision, stating it vindicates their position that the allegations are baseless.
Meanwhile, the petitioner's lawyer expressed disappointment but said they would pursue the case when it is heard. The development comes as the temple construction progresses, with the sanctum sanctorum work nearing completion.
