AYODHYA: The search for the first full-time Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya has entered its final phase, with a high-powered search committee completing face-to-face evaluations of 16 shortlisted finalists.
According to an official statement issued by the Trust, the Search Committee—comprising retired Justice Permod Kohli, retired Lieutenant General VK Chaturvedi, and renowned nuclear scientist Dr. Suresh Hawre—conducted personal interviews at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra campus on August 11 and 12.
The panel will select three final names from the pool and forward its recommendations to the Trust Board, which will make the official announcement in due course.
Rigorous Multi-Tier Screening
The recruitment drive witnessed an overwhelming response from across the country, attracting 5,585 initial applications. Following preliminary screening, 3,877 candidates submitted detailed curriculum vitae (CVs), which were evaluated on criteria including management capabilities, strategic planning, language proficiency, personal achievement, and experience in handling large-scale events and personnel.
In the second phase, 111 candidates were shortlisted for virtual interactions to assess their leadership qualities, technological acumen, communication skills, and strategic vision for temple administration. From this group, 16 top contenders were invited to Ayodhya for in-person evaluations.
The shortlisted finalists represent a diverse mix of high-profile professionals, including Army veterans, retired IAS and IPS officers, as well as senior leaders from both government and non-government sectors.
Scope of Authority and Contract Terms
The incoming CEO will be appointed on an initial three-year contract, subject to renewal based on performance evaluations. Remuneration and perks will be finalized through mutual agreement.
Operating directly under the supervision of the Trust Board, the CEO will be tasked with overseeing the day-to-day management and future infrastructure development of the grand temple complex. Key responsibilities include:
Maintaining strict financial transparency and regulatory compliance.
Coordinating multi-agency security protocols with government bodies.
Supervising major religious festivals and daily temple rituals.
Streamlining crowds, safety protocols, and amenities for visiting devotees and VIP dignitaries.
Professional Governance Following Recent Row
The initiative to institute a professional corporate-style CEO post comes in the wake of a recent financial misconduct controversy. In June, an FIR was lodged following allegations of cash siphoning and mismanagement of devotional offerings at the shrine, leading to the arrest of at least eight individuals.
Trust officials emphasized that the entire selection framework was designed to remain thoroughly merit-based, transparent, and aligned with the operational needs of an institution of national and global reverence.
