Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai on Tuesday (July 14) said the Ram Temple embezzlement episode is the biggest proof of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government’s failure, and added that when it comes to taking credit for the temple, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.P. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are always at the forefront; hence they will be blamed for this heinous crime and theft at the temple.
“I have sent a detailed letter to the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, demanding an independent forensic and financial investigation on this issue, but no effective action has been seen so far. Conversely, many government representatives and political spokespersons appear more active in media accusations and diversionary tactics against the opposition than in answering core questions.
“The fact is, the Ram Temple embezzlement episode is the biggest proof of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government’s failure, and when it comes to taking credit for the temple, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.P. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are always at the forefront; hence they will be blamed for this heinous crime and theft at the temple,” Mr. Rai told The Hindu.
Mr. Rai added that the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya is the supreme symbol of the faith, devotion and cultural consciousness of millions of Indians.
“The historic ceremony of the temple’s construction, inauguration, and consecration was completed by your hands, and you and your government presented it to the nation as a major national achievement. At a time when serious questions are being raised about the temple’s offerings, financial management, and administrative procedures, the people of the country naturally expect similar clarity, transparency, and accountability. Along with taking credit for the temple’s construction, they should also accept responsibility for the theft of offerings. When your government has accepted credit for the construction, inauguration, and consecration of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, it seems inappropriate to remain silent on the serious questions surrounding the temple’s offerings, financial management, and administrative system,” he said.
Eight accused have been arrested in the alleged Ram Temple donation embezzlement case. The accused have been sent to judicial custody till July 27.
Published - July 15, 2026 04:21 am IST