Akhilesh Targets BJP Over Ram Temple Donation Row
Akhilesh Alleges BJP Power Struggle Behind Ram Temple Donation Row
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has alleged that the Ram Temple donation controversy has exposed a power struggle within the BJP, claiming that differences between the party’s Delhi and Lucknow leadership were influencing the handling of the probe.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Mr. Yadav questioned why the alleged embezzlement of temple donations was being investigated by a Special Investigation Team instead of a central agency such as the ED, CBI or Income Tax Department. He claimed that the choice of probe mechanism raised questions over who controlled the investigation.
The controversy relates to allegations of misappropriation of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. The issue gained political momentum after Mr. Yadav raised concerns earlier this month, following which the Uttar Pradesh government formed an SIT. An FIR was later registered, and eight people have been arrested in connection with the case.
Ram Mandir Trust president Nritya Gopal Das said he was deeply pained by the alleged theft of offerings and urged political parties not to politicise the matter. He said those responsible should face strict punishment and expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath would ensure action.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust also held a meeting amid the controversy, with the resignations of general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra among the matters under discussion. Reports said both resigned taking moral responsibility for the alleged irregularities.
Investigators are examining alleged lapses in cash-handling procedures, CCTV footage, bank records and assets linked to the accused. Officials have reportedly estimated that ₹6–8 lakh may have been siphoned off daily from temple donations before the case came to light.
