Ayodhya: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which manages the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, has invited applications for the post of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to oversee the administration and management of the temple.

According to the notification issued on the Trust’s website and social media platforms, the selected candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the temple and implementing the Trust’s decisions.

Eligibility criteria announced

The Trust has specified that applicants must be graduates from a recognised university and possess at least 20 years of experience in administration or finance.

The notification also states that the applicant must be an actively practising Hindu, while being a Ram devotee belonging to the Vaishnava tradition will be considered a desirable qualification.

Apart from educational and professional qualifications, candidates are expected to demonstrate integrity, honesty, leadership ability and strong managerial skills.

Three-year tenure in Ayodhya

The appointment will initially be for three years, and the selected CEO will be required to reside in Ayodhya during the tenure.

The CEO will be entrusted with the day-to-day administration of the Ram Temple, implementation of decisions taken by the Trust, supervision of staff, coordination of religious and civic activities, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the temple complex.

Selection process

A search committee constituted by the Trust will scrutinise applications and conduct interviews of shortlisted candidates before recommending a suitable candidate for appointment.

According to the Trust, the selection process is expected to be completed within a month after the application deadline of July 18.

Appointment draws attention

The recruitment process comes amid public attention over the appointment of a CEO for the Ram Temple following reports related to an alleged donation theft.

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has stated that it is not opposed to the appointment of a CEO but believes the selection should be made independently by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust rather than by the government.

The organisation has also objected to suggestions that the post should necessarily be filled by a retired bureaucrat, maintaining that the Trust alone should determine the qualifications and selection process for the position.

The Trust has not announced when the selected CEO is expected to assume office.