Ayodhya: Former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Amitabh Thakur (1992:UP) has applied for the post of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, becoming one of the contenders for the key administrative position as the Trust moves ahead with the selection process.
The appointment is being closely watched as the Trust prepares to appoint its first CEO to oversee the day-to-day administration of the Ram Mandir, strengthen institutional governance and manage the rapidly expanding operations of one of India’s most visited religious institutions.
Trust Begins CEO Selection Process
The CEO will be responsible for implementing decisions taken by the Trust, supervising temple administration, overseeing financial management, managing staff and ensuring the smooth functioning of temple operations.
The appointment assumes significance as the Ram Mandir continues to witness a rising influx of pilgrims from across the country. The selection process also comes at a time when the Trust has faced scrutiny over allegations relating to the theft of devotees’ offerings, leading to calls for stronger oversight and enhanced transparency in temple administration.
About Amitabh Thakur
Amitabh Thakur is a 1992-batch Uttar Pradesh cadre IPS officer who served in several important policing assignments during his career.
Born on June 16, 1968, in Bihar, he holds a B.Tech degree and entered the Indian Police Service through the UPSC Civil Services Examination. During his service, he worked as Superintendent of Police (SP) in several districts of Uttar Pradesh and later rose to the rank of Inspector General (IG).
He was known for his outspoken positions on administrative and governance issues and frequently figured in public discussions during his tenure.
Compulsory Retirement in 2021
On March 23, 2021, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) compulsorily retired Thakur from service under the applicable service rules after concluding that he was “unfit to be retained” in public interest. The decision followed multiple departmental proceedings and disciplinary complaints.
Had he continued in service, he would have remained in the IPS until 2028.
Political Journey After Retirement
Following his compulsory retirement, Thakur announced the formation of a political outfit, initially named Adhikar Sena, which later became Azad Adhikar Sena. He currently serves as its national president.
He had also announced his intention to contest the 2022 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, though he eventually did not enter the electoral contest. Since then, he has remained active in public and political affairs.
In late 2025, he was arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Police in connection with a 1999 land allotment case in Deoria. His family and supporters described the action as politically motivated.
Significance of the CEO Appointment
The appointment of the first CEO is considered an important administrative milestone for the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
The successful candidate will play a central role in professionalising the management of the temple complex by overseeing administration, implementing Trust decisions, managing finances and personnel, and ensuring efficient functioning as the number of devotees continues to grow.
With the application process underway, the Trust is expected to finalise the appointment after completing the prescribed selection procedure.
