Allegations of Fund Misappropriation Hit Ram Mandir Project

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has publicly accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regarding alleged embezzlement of donations intended for the Ram Temple Trust. Speaking to the media, Kharge highlighted the contradiction of Modi’s previous involvement in the temple's inauguration while remaining silent on these serious allegations. He stated, "PM Modi performed the Pran Pratishtha and inaugurated Ram Mandir. If there's alleged misappropriation, when will he speak?" Kharge raised concerns about the possibility that the misappropriated funds could have been taken by Modi himself, questioning the lack of response from both leaders on the issue.

Earlier in the day, Congress Member of Parliament Priyanka Gandhi expressed her dismay at the situation, labelling it as “really tragic”. She stated that individuals across the nation, regardless of their faith, contributed donations, and now many believe those funds have been misappropriated. Gandhi remarked, “It is shameful and the government needs to inquire into what...how...why it has happened?...Women have given from their savings…poor people have given.” She emphasised that the funds collected were from common citizens, not solely from corporate entities, stating, “If you collect them, it is your responsibility.”

These allegations first surfaced on June 7, leading to the establishment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) by the Uttar Pradesh government on June 13. This request came from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, who oversee the temple fund. Following the SIT's recommendations, a First Information Report (FIR) was filed on June 25, resulting in the arrest of eight individuals implicated in the case.