cong-seeks-sc-monitored-probe-into-ram-temple-donation-row

The Congress on Saturday demanded a Supreme Court-monitored judicial probe into the alleged irregularities in donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, accusing the BJP and RSS of allowing "loot in the name of faith" and calling for complete transparency in the management of devotees' contributions.

 

Addressing a press conference, Congress spokesperson Ajay Upadhyay alleged that the controversy was not merely a financial issue but one that had shaken the faith and trust of millions of devotees. He claimed that funds donated in the name of Lord Ram had become a source of political exploitation and demanded accountability from those overseeing the temple trust.

 

Questioning the recent resignations of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, Upadhyay asked why an independent investigation should be feared if no wrongdoing had occurred. He also questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence on the issue and urged the Centre to support a judicial inquiry under the Supreme Court's supervision.

Also read: Cong seeks SC-monitored probe in Ram temple donation embezzlement

 

The Congress alleged that questions had emerged over the transparency of donation collection, accounting and expenditure. It claimed that reports of fake receipts and financial irregularities had surfaced, but action had so far been limited to lower-level employees while senior officials had escaped scrutiny.

 

The controversy began after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple. The allegations were initially rejected by Champat Rai, who said an internal audit had found nothing significant. However, following a preliminary inquiry by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government, eight people associated with counting cash and valuables at the temple were arrested.

 

The Congress also demanded the immediate arrest of all those found responsible and called for the existing temple trust to be dissolved and replaced by a new body that is transparent and accountable.

 

Reiterating the party's stand, Upadhyay said Lord Ram belongs to the faith of millions of Indians and should not be associated with any political party, adding that the truth behind the alleged irregularities must be brought before the public through an independent judicial investigation.