The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has called for a comprehensive investigation into the alleged theft of donations from the revered Ram Temple in Ayodhya, demanding strict penalties for those found culpable. The organization expressed its full support for the Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government to probe the matter.
RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale released a statement on Friday, articulating the deep distress felt by devotees nationwide over the reported misappropriation of funds from the Shri Ram Lalla temple's donation boxes. Hosabale emphasized the critical need for anyone implicated in the investigation to face severe consequences, while also urging patience and caution among the Hindu community against what he termed "anti-Hindu and anti-national forces" attempting to exploit the controversy.
SIT Investigation Underway, Arrests Made
The issue of alleged donation embezzlement at the Ayodhya Ram Temple first emerged on June 7. Following these reports, the Uttar Pradesh government swiftly established an SIT. A First Information Report (FIR) was lodged on June 25, based on the SIT's initial findings, leading to the arrest of eight individuals connected with the temple's donation counting process.
Hosabale welcomed the government's decisive action, expressing confidence that both the temple Trust and the SIT would implement all necessary measures to ensure transparency and restore public trust. He highlighted the collective expectation of the Hindu society, including the RSS, for the Trust to treat this incident with the utmost seriousness and promptly introduce corrective actions to enhance temple management and operational integrity. "The current atmosphere of confusion must be resolved," Hosabale stated, urging proactive initiatives from the temple management and the government-appointed SIT.
Call for Patience Amidst Political Tensions
The RSS leader appealed to the Hindu community to maintain patience and restraint while the investigation unfolds. He reiterated concerns that certain elements were attempting to undermine Hindu dharma and society by leveraging the controversy. Hosabale advised devotees not to allow such efforts to erode their faith during this challenging period, underscoring that the Ayodhya Ram Temple symbolizes faith, devotion, and sacrifice for millions.
The alleged theft has ignited widespread anger and disappointment, particularly given that the temple's construction followed decades of struggle and immense sacrifices by devotees. The RSS conveyed its expectation that the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust would bolster its financial management and operational frameworks to guarantee enhanced transparency moving forward. This controversy has also gained significant political traction in Uttar Pradesh, especially with Assembly elections approaching next year. The matter is anticipated to be a key discussion point at an upcoming RSS meeting scheduled in Karnataka from July 10.