Gangtok, June 26 -- Ayodhya (UP), June 26 : In one of the most serious controversies to hit India's most sacred new temple, the alleged theft of crores of rupees from the donation funds of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has spiralled into a full-blown criminal case, resulting in the arrest of eight people, the resignation of the Trust's General Secretary, a Supreme Court petition, and an intense national political debate.

What began as allegations dismissed as "opposition propaganda" just weeks ago has now left the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust facing criminal investigation, mounting public anger, and questions about the integrity of one of India's most high-profile religious institutions.

How It All Began The controversy erupted...