Karnataka Home Minister Questions BJP’s Silence on Ram Mandir Donations Controversy

NEW DELHI: Karnataka’s Home Minister and Congress leader, Priyank Kharge, expressed his concerns on Saturday regarding the apparent silence of the BJP-led central government and the Uttar Pradesh administration over allegations of misappropriation involving donations meant for the Ram Mandir.

Kharge urged that the Prime Minister should address this significant issue during his monthly podcast, Mann Ki Baat, considering he was instrumental in both the consecration and inauguration of the temple. “When will the Prime Minister be discussing this in Mann Ki Baat? He led the Pran Pratishthapan and the inauguration. Why isn’t he speaking out now? Where is Yogi Adityanath‘s voice in this matter?” he questioned.

In response to remarks made by UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who cautioned against “playing with the emotions of Ram Bhakts”, Kharge challenged the authority of those alleging emotional harm. He asked, “Who actually played with those emotions? Was it Congress, the SP, or other leaders? No, your people are implicated in this mess. You have failed to uphold public sentiment. I’ve been arguing this for over two weeks now. Those involved are the ones who have exploited Ram’s name for political gain. They are only engaging in religious politics, and nothing good can be anticipated from them,” he asserted.

These remarks came shortly after Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra submitted their resignations, citing moral responsibility due to accusations regarding the embezzlement of donations for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The FIR registered in this case was based on directives from the Uttar Pradesh government and falls under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 306, 316(5), 317(4), 317(5), 61, and 3(5).