Are you a staunch Hindu or simply a believer? Do you eat non-vegetarian food? Do you wear a janeu (sacred thread)? Do you drink alcohol and eat meat? Can you manage crowds ranging from 20,000 to 5 lakh? These are some of the questions being asked from candidates seeking to become the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya.Interviews for 18 shortlisted candidates for the post have begun, with reports claiming former IAS and IPS officers, and four former military officers are on the list.The candidates were asked to fill out a Google form seeking details about their administrative experience, as well as religious beliefs and personal lives. During the interviews, panel members also went through details mentioned in their CVs and questioned them about their likes and dislikes, interpersonal skills and conduct.Questions also covered their families, previous work experience and their handling of crowds during large religious events. Candidates were asked about their faith in Lord Ram and their understanding of the temple’s religious and social significance.The Trust is appointing a full-time CEO for the first time after the theft of cash, gold and other offerings by temple staff came to light in June. The CEO will oversee the temple’s administration, facilities and associated businesses.The selection process began Tuesday, with 10 candidates appearing for interviews on the first day. The remaining candidates were interviewed Wednesday.According to reports, the Trust has stipulated that the selected candidate should be a practising Hindu, follow Hindu traditions and guidelines, be a strict vegetarian and a teetotaller. The age criterion for the post has been fixed at 50 to 70 years.The interviews were held behind closed doors in the Ram Mandir complex. Confidentiality was maintained throughout the process. The selection committee comprises former Justice Pramod Kohli, Lt Gen Vishnukant Chaturvedi (retd) and scientist Suresh Haware, former chairman of the Shirdi Sai Baba Trust.A set of 34 questions was reportedly prepared by the interview panel. The three-member panel will shortlist three names and forward them to the Trust. Office-bearers will then interview the three shortlisted candidates before selecting one name for the final appointment.The CEO’s post is considered crucial as the temple complex’s administrative responsibilities, arrangements for devotees and coordination among various departments have expanded significantly.