Ram Temple theft hits Ayodhya vendors, stokes UP election debate

Alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has led to a sharp drop in the number of devotees, with daily footfall falling from five‑to‑six lakh to between 50,000 and one lakh. Local shopkeepers say the reduced crowds have hurt their businesses, noting fewer visitors from other states and a general wariness among tourists.

Police have taken custody of three suspects and recovered cash totaling over ₹50 million, linking the seized funds to the donation theft. The case has become a political flashpoint in Uttar Pradesh, where opposition parties, particularly the Samajwadi Party, are using the controversy to challenge the ruling BJP ahead of the state assembly elections. Analysts note that the Ram Temple symbolises cultural identity for the BJP’s voter base, making any scandal around it electorally significant.