Ayodhya: The race to become the first Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has rapidly intensified, with over 1000 candidates applying for the prestigious post within just 24 hours of the official notification. The initial list of eager applicants is heavily dominated by retired bureaucrats, senior administrators, and former government officials from across the country.
Adding a high profile twist to the ongoing selection process, former Indian Police Service officer Amitabh Thakur has also formally submitted his application. Thakur, who formerly served in the Uttar Pradesh cadre and currently heads the Azad Adhikar Sena, was given compulsory retirement by the central government in 2021. In his detailed application, the 58 year old former officer highlighted his extensive administrative experience spanning security management, vigilance, legal affairs, and personnel operations. He also heavily emphasized his deep connection to Hindu socio cultural traditions and his profound respect for the governance ideals of Lord Ram.
The overwhelming nationwide response has prompted the three member selection committee to appoint a dedicated secretary to carefully screen and segregate the massive influx of applications. A committee member revealed to the media that nearly 750 applications flooded their official email inbox within just a few hours on the very first day. With the final submission deadline strictly set for July 18, temple authorities expect the total number of applicants to cross several thousands. The specialized selection panel, comprising retired Supreme Court judge Pramod Kohli, retired Lieutenant General Vishnukant Chaturvedi, and former Shirdi trust chairperson Suresh Haware, is scheduled to meet on July 19 to begin the intensive scrutiny process.
This urgent hunt for a dedicated Chief Executive Officer comes directly following major organizational changes triggered by recent controversies surrounding temple donations. The newly appointed officer will serve a three year tenure and will be held strictly responsible for ensuring absolute transparency in all financial matters. They will independently oversee daily temple administration, manage complex staff operations, and coordinate closely with state security agencies to smoothly accommodate the massive daily influx of devotees.
Only dedicated candidates aged between 50 and 70 years with at least 20 years of vast managerial experience in large institutions are eligible for this crucial leadership role. Moving forward, the selection committee will conduct rigorous interviews with the successfully shortlisted candidates before recommending three final names to the temple trust board for the ultimate decision.