Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge have jointly written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking an independent investigation into alleged embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya.
The Congress leaders also urged the government to improve transparency and accountability in the functioning of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
Congress Leaders Demand Independent Investigation
The demand comes as police investigate allegations that people misappropriated donations made by devotees at the Ram Temple. The case has attracted national attention after police arrested several people and two senior Trust officials resigned following the allegations.
In their letter, Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge stressed that millions of devotees contributed to the temple with faith and devotion. They said those devotees deserve complete transparency about how the Trust handles their donations.
The leaders argued that the allegations have weakened public confidence in the Trust and called for an impartial investigation to establish the facts.
Kharge Says Devotees Feel Betrayed
Kharge shared the letter on X and said devotees who donated their hard-earned money to the temple now feel betrayed by the reported theft.
He called for a comprehensive and independent inquiry to establish the truth and fix responsibility.
The Congress leaders also argued that authorities should not treat the matter as an internal issue of the Trust.
Congress Raises Questions Over Centre’s Role
Rahul Gandhi and Kharge pointed to the Centre’s role in the creation of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
They noted that Prime Minister Modi announced the formation of the Trust in Parliament after the Supreme Court delivered its verdict in the Ayodhya dispute.
The Congress leaders also pointed out that the Central government appointed members to the Trust. They highlighted links between some members and organisations such as the RSS and VHP and argued that the Centre should therefore ensure a transparent investigation.
Police Probe and Arrests Continue
The alleged donation theft came to light in early June. Following a complaint from the Trust, police registered an FIR on June 25.
Authorities have since arrested eight people in connection with the case. Police continue to investigate the allegations and have yet to announce their final findings.
No court has established the guilt of the accused, and the allegations remain under investigation.
Congress Seeks Public Disclosure of Financial Records
Rahul Gandhi and Kharge also asked the Trust to make its financial records public. They said devotees have a right to know how the Trust collects, manages and uses their contributions.
The Congress leaders believe greater financial transparency could help restore public confidence and strengthen accountability.
They also urged authorities to take legal action against anyone found responsible for financial irregularities, regardless of their position or influence.
Rahul Gandhi and Kharge Urge PM Modi to Intervene
The Congress leaders criticised what they described as the Prime Minister’s silence on the allegations. They asked Modi to intervene and ensure that an independent agency conducts a thorough investigation.
They argued that the government’s response to the controversy will affect public confidence in both the government and the Trust.
Investigation Remains Underway
Police continue to investigate the alleged donation irregularities. The inquiry will determine whether financial misconduct occurred and whether authorities should pursue further legal action.
The case has also triggered a wider political debate over transparency and accountability in religious institutions. The public and devotees now await further developments from the investigating agencies, the Trust and the government.