The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has reached the final stage of its CEO selection process. Officials have completed scrutiny of more than 5,200 applications. Subsequently, authorities conducted preliminary interviews with 54 applicants. Now, 18 candidates have secured places in the final round.
A three-member committee will conduct final interviews at the Ram Janmabhoomi complex on August 11 and 12. Retired Justice Pramod Kohli will head this committee. Afterwards, the panel will submit three shortlisted names to the Trust. Finally, members will select the CEO during their September 2 meeting.
Administrative Experience Could Shape the Final Selection
The selection process considers administrative experience alongside a religious background. Sources expect candidates with extensive administrative expertise to receive preference. Therefore, a retired IAS officer currently has the strongest possibility of securing the CEO position. However, the Trust will make its final decision during the scheduled meeting.
Candidates will attend interviews inside the temple complex on Tuesday and Wednesday. Moreover, the interviewing committee includes three experienced members. Retired Justice Pramod Kohli will join retired Lieutenant General Vishnukant Chaturvedi on the panel. Former Shirdi Saibaba Trust chairman Suresh Haware will also participate in the interview process.
CEO Must Meet Management and Religious Requirements
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust CEO will primarily manage the temple’s operations. Therefore, applicants need strong management experience to handle this responsibility effectively.
According to temple sources, the successful candidate must follow several religious requirements. The selected person must follow Hinduism and observe all traditions plus prescribed practices. Additionally, applicants must maintain a completely vegetarian lifestyle. They must also avoid alcohol and other intoxicants.
The Trust has fixed the eligibility age between 50 and 70 years. Meanwhile, officials decided to appoint a CEO during June’s first week. They took that decision after allegations involving theft of offerings at the Ram Mandir.
The final interview process will now narrow 18 candidates down to three names. Subsequently, the September 2 Trust meeting will determine who takes charge as CEO.
