Ram Mandir donation theft controversy sparks political outcry in India

A controversy over alleged theft of donations at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has triggered a multi‑party political backlash. The Congress party criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, demanding the Special Investigation Team’s (SIT) report be published, an audit of the temple’s donation accounts and the filing of FIRs against trust officials such as former secretary Champat Rai.

Socialist Party leader Pawan Pandey claimed that Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav was the first to receive information about the irregularities. Former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mayawati called the alleged theft “grave and troubling,” urging that the matter not be politicised and that the temple adopt procedures similar to other major shrines. She also noted the recent transfer of a wireless‑department officer from Ayodhya to Gorakhpur.

The issue is being examined by a SIT, and the Supreme Court has been petitioned to schedule an urgent hearing. A trust meeting scheduled for 6 July is expected to discuss possible restructuring and the resignations of key trustees.