Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and LoP is Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding an independent probe into the alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple and questioning his silence on the matter.
In a joint letter, the LoPs said devotees who contributed to the temple with faith and dedication deserve answers and accountability.
The request comes weeks after allegations emerged of the theft of donations made at the temple, sparking a police investigation that has so far led to the arrest of eight people and the resignation of two senior officials of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Foundation.
Sharing the message on
Congress leaders said the matter had shaken public confidence and said the Prime Minister’s silence was “unacceptable”. They urged him to ensure accountability and compensation in this case.
The alleged theft of donations at the Ram temple first came to light in early June.
Based on a complaint lodged by the Trust, the police registered an FIR on June 25 and arrested eight men in connection with the case. The investigation is ongoing.
In a joint letter to the Prime Minister, the two leaders said the Center could not distance itself from the controversy as the fund was formed following an announcement made by Modi in Parliament in line with the Supreme Court’s directions.
Congress attaches trust to the centre
Gandhi and Karji said the members of the trust were appointed by the Union government and claimed that many of them are associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and its affiliated organisations.
They also referred to the former Secretary-General of the Fund, describing him as a close confidant of the Prime Minister.
Congressional leaders noted that these links require the government to respond decisively to these accusations and ensure full transparency.
“Your silence is unacceptable”
Calling for immediate action, Gandhi and Karji said, “Your silence now in the face of such a crime is unacceptable. It is your duty to ensure accountability and compensation. We urge you to immediately order an independent and comprehensive investigation into the Fund’s finances, including the handling of all offers, including cash, gold and silver.”
Opposition leaders also demanded that the results of any investigation, as well as the fund’s financial records, be made public.
Request public disclosure
According to the letter, devotees who donated to the temple have the right to know how their contributions have been used.
Congressional leaders urged the government to publish the fund’s accounts and ensure liability is assigned where irregularities are found.
“All those found responsible, regardless of their position or influence, must be held accountable. The credibility of your government and the Fund depends on how transparently and quickly you act. The people of India are watching. Jai Hind!” They said.
