Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai detained in Ayodhya hotel amid Ram temple dispute

Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai was placed under house arrest on June 30 while staying at a hotel in Ayodhya. The detention occurred as a Congress delegation, including several MPs and senior leaders, prepared to visit the Ram Temple for a worship ceremony.

Rai’s wife, Reena Rai, said the police took him into a jeep and did not inform the family of his location, accusing the BJP‑led state government of trying to silence his voice. She stated, “My husband’s voice is being silenced by the BJP government.” Congress alleges the move is a political retaliation amid the heated controversy over alleged misappropriation of funds related to the temple’s “chadhava” (offering) case.

The incident has intensified political tensions in Uttar Pradesh, with the party vowing to continue its campaign against what it calls “temple fund thieves” and accusing the government of targeting opposition leaders.