A wave of shock has swept through Ayodhya after the mysterious death of Mahant Ram Milan Das, the head priest of the famous Rawat Temple located in the Naya Ghat area. Known for his close association with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the priest reportedly died under suspicious circumstances shortly after dinner on Saturday night.

According to early reports, Mahant Ram Milan Das began frothing at the mouth soon after his meal, alarming his disciples. They immediately rushed him to Shri Ram Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival. The suddenness of his demise has left devotees and locals in deep shock, with several speculating that the death might not have been natural.

Police and Administration Rush to the Scene

As soon as news of the death broke, senior officials including the District Magistrate (DM) and Superintendent of Police (SP) arrived at the hospital. They interacted with other saints and temple staff to gather preliminary information.

When questioned by the media, officials did not confirm the cause of death, stating that an investigation was underway. Sources within the administration revealed that the household maid has gone missing since the incident, leading to suspicions of possible poisoning.

Though no official statement has confirmed this theory yet, investigators are focusing on the angle of food contamination or deliberate poisoning. Forensic samples have been collected from the kitchen and dining area for testing.

Mahant’s Legacy and Close Ties with CM Yogi Adityanath

Mahant Ram Milan Das had been serving as the head priest of Rawat Temple for the past 15 years. His guru was one of the prominent figures in the Ram Mandir movement, and Das himself was respected among the spiritual fraternity of Ayodhya.

He was also known to share a personal rapport with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who often visited him during his Ayodhya trips. Locals and devotees recall that the two shared a “guru-disciple” level of respect and affection.

Following the news of his death, senior members of the Nirvani Akhara and other temple councils have demanded a high-level investigation, citing the mysterious circumstances surrounding the incident.

Eyewitness Accounts Add to the Mystery

A devotee named Markandey, who had traveled from Gorakhpur for the Kalpvas pilgrimage, recounted the events of the previous night:

“I attended the evening aarti with Mahant ji. After the prayer, he returned to his chamber to rest. Early in the morning, when we came for darshan, he appeared unwell. The doors to his room were open from both sides. When we asked the attendant about his health, she said he was suffering from a cough and was being given warm water. A few hours later, we heard the shocking news of his death.”

He further added that the maid left the premises soon after the incident, raising doubts among devotees and temple staff. Her sudden disappearance has become a crucial lead for the police investigation.

Investigation Underway: Cause of Death Still Unknown

The Ayodhya Police have sealed off the priest’s room and begun forensic testing of the food items served at dinner. Officials have also initiated efforts to trace the missing maid, who is believed to hold key information.

According to police sources, a post-mortem examination has been conducted, and the report is expected soon. Authorities have assured that the case will be investigated with full transparency, given the high public interest and the Mahant’s influence.

Residents of Ayodhya, meanwhile, remain deeply unsettled. The Rawat Temple, which is usually bustling with pilgrims and worshippers, has turned somber. Devotees continue to gather outside the premises, seeking answers and justice for their revered saint.

Broader Implications

The suspicious death of such a high-profile religious leader has raised several questions regarding the safety and security of saints in Ayodhya, especially those associated with major temples and spiritual organizations.

Authorities have assured that all aspects, including personal enmities, property disputes, and poisoning, are being probed. The incident comes at a sensitive time, as Ayodhya continues to attract national and international attention following the inauguration of the Ram Temple.

As the investigation continues, devotees and citizens alike are waiting for clarity on what truly caused the death of Mahant Ram Milan Das—a revered figure who played a key role in preserving Ayodhya’s spiritual legacy.