New Delhi: A massive political storm has erupted over the alleged theft of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, with Aam Aadmi Party National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal launching a scathing attack on the government. Following his recent visit to the temple town, the former Delhi Chief Minister accused the ruling administration of actively shielding the powerful masterminds behind the robbery while unfairly making scapegoats out of lower level employees.
The controversy stems from the shocking revelation that large sums of cash, gold, and precious ornaments donated by devotees were systematically siphoned from the temple. Following a preliminary probe by a Special Investigation Team, eight individuals, including temple counting staff and bank employees, were arrested, and a formal FIR was registered on June 25. During the probe, authorities also suspected widespread tampering with CCTV cameras inside the counting rooms.
Expressing deep anguish over the incident, Kejriwal termed the theft a great sin and a direct attack on the faith of crores of Hindus. He stated that a massive dacoity has occurred in the house of Lord Ram. “The people who committed this theft, and those involved in this massive robbery, are unfortunately the very people who are supposed to take action. Obviously, they are not going to act against themselves. Instead, they are doing everything they can to protect themselves,” Kejriwal alleged during a press conference. He highlighted that while minor clerks and security guards are behind bars, the real powerful figures remain untouched.
In a strong appeal to the public, the AAP chief urged citizens to socially boycott anyone involved in stealing temple funds. He highly praised the Ayodhya Bar Association for its decision to refuse legal representation to the accused, suggesting that the entire nation should adopt a similar stance against the donation thieves and their political protectors.
The allegations have intensified the political blame game in Uttar Pradesh. Defending the administration, the state government has assured strict action. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath promised a strict zero tolerance policy against anyone playing with the faith of devotees, asserting that the ongoing Special Investigation Team probe will ensure absolute justice. Amid the mounting public pressure, reports also indicate that key officials of the temple trust have offered their resignations.
As the investigation deepens, the incident has severely hurt public sentiments across the nation. Citizens and political leaders alike are now demanding absolute transparency and accountability to ensure that the sacred offerings of devotees are completely protected from such brazen exploitation in the future.