The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has started interviewing eight shortlisted candidates for its first full‑time chief executive officer.
Candidates were chosen from more than 5,200 applications and were invited to the Green House inside the temple complex for a 40‑ to 50‑minute interview.
The initial round on Tuesday saw ten applicants, including three former IAS officers, a former IPS officer and four retired military personnel, answer questions on their experience and vision for the temple.
The selection panel also asked personal questions about religious practices, dietary habits and the wearing of the sacred thread, as reported by independent media.
A Google form was used before the interview to collect details on administrative experience, faith, and personal life, which the panel reviewed alongside the CVs.
Interviewers probed candidates on topics such as their shikha, vegetarian status, alcohol consumption, family background, and crowd‑management skills during large religious events.
The panel, composed of former Supreme Court judge Justice Pramod Kohli, retired Lt Gen Vishnukant Chaturvedi and Suresh Haware, will recommend three names to the Trust for final approval.
The appointment comes after a June incident where staff were found to have stolen cash and gold, prompting the Trust to seek stronger governance and professional management.
The CEO will oversee daily administration, facilities and associated businesses, aiming to restore public confidence and improve financial oversight.
The interview process, originally planned for two days, is now expected to extend over four more days, with the remaining candidates to be interviewed on Wednesday.