Lucknow: A donation box containing cash offerings was allegedly stolen from the Baba Budheshwar temple in the Para area early Sunday, in the second theft reported from the shrine within four days, police said.The incident came to light when the temple priest reached the premises to open the shrine in the morning and found the box missing. The donation box had been placed near the coconut-breaking area at the main entrance and is believed to have contained thousands of rupees contributed by devotees.Temple authorities informed Para police, who arrived at the spot, inspected the area and initiated an inquiry. Police said they are examining CCTV footage from the temple premises and surrounding locations to identify the suspect. Teams are also questioning local residents and others who may have information about the theft.The latest incident follows the alleged theft of a temple bell from the same premises earlier this week. In that case, an attendant was arrested during the investigation and sent to jail, and a video related to the incident had circulated widely online.After Sunday’s theft, several devotees gathered at the temple and demanded strengthened security arrangements, including increased night patrolling.Para SHO Suresh Singh said efforts were underway to trace the stolen donation box and apprehend those involved.
