In recent developments surrounding the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Karnataka Home Minister and Congress leader Priyank Kharge has raised significant concerns regarding the alleged misappropriation of donations intended for the temple’s construction. Kharge has questioned the silence of both the central government and the Uttar Pradesh state government on this matter, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the issue in his monthly podcast, “Mann Ki Baat.”
**Allegations of Misappropriation**
The controversy began when reports emerged of financial irregularities in the handling of donations for the Ram Mandir. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, responsible for the temple’s construction, faced allegations of embezzlement and mismanagement of funds. These claims have been strongly denied by the Trust, which maintains that all donations are handled transparently and in accordance with legal requirements.
**Priyank Kharge’s Call for Accountability**
Priyank Kharge has been vocal in demanding accountability from the authorities. He pointed out that Prime Minister Modi had played a pivotal role in the temple’s consecration and inauguration, questioning why he has remained silent on the alleged financial discrepancies. Kharge stated, “So when is the Prime Minister doing ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on this? The Pran Pratishthapan was done by the Prime Minister, inauguration was done by the Prime Minister. Where is the Prime Minister’s voice now?”
He also criticized Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s remarks urging people not to “play with the emotions of Ram Bhakts,” questioning who was responsible for hurting those sentiments. Kharge remarked, “Who played with the emotions? Did the Congress, did the SP, did any of the leaders were involved in this? See, your people were involved. You failed to protect the beliefs of people.”
**Resignations Amidst the Controversy**
In response to the allegations, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra resigned from their positions, taking moral responsibility for the alleged misappropriation of funds. Their resignations followed the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 306, 316(5), 317(4), 317(5), 61, and 3(5), as directed by the Uttar Pradesh government.
**Political Reactions**
The controversy has elicited strong reactions from various political figures. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra termed the alleged misappropriation as the “gravest sin,” stating that it had “stunned the entire nation.” She called for a transparent investigation into the matter, emphasizing that those responsible must face strict punishment if found guilty.
On the other hand, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the Uttar Pradesh government’s decision to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the allegations, calling it an “insult to the Sanatana Dharma.” He expressed concern over the necessity of investigating priests associated with the Ram Mandir, suggesting that such actions tarnish the sanctity of the temple.
**Legal Actions and Investigations**
Amidst the allegations, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Member of Parliament Sudhakar Singh issued a legal notice to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, seeking detailed disclosures on the donations received and their expenditure. The notice demands a complete, itemized, and year-wise account of donations and expenditures from the financial year 2021-22 to 2025-26, along with audited balance sheets and other financial documents.
The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted an SIT to investigate the alleged embezzlement of funds. The SIT has questioned Trust member Dr. Anil Mishra regarding the procedures followed for counting donations and the recruitment of staff involved in the process. This inquiry is part of a broader effort to ensure transparency and accountability in the handling of funds intended for the temple’s construction.
**Conclusion**
The Ram Mandir donation controversy has sparked significant political and public discourse, highlighting concerns over financial transparency and accountability in religious institutions. As investigations continue, stakeholders from various political parties and communities await clarity on the matter, emphasizing the need for a thorough and impartial inquiry to uphold the trust and faith of millions of devotees.
