Alleged Missing Donations at Ayodhya Ram Temple Spark Political Row
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav alleged crores of rupees in donations to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya are missing, calling it a massive fraud. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust denied wrongdoing, citing ongoing audits. The BJP accused Yadav of spreading lies. In response, the Uttar Pradesh government formed a three-member SIT to investigate, with a preliminary report due in seven days. The controversy has deepened political tensions ahead of state elections.
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K.C. Venugopal demands Supreme Court-monitored probe into Ayodhya Ram temple donations scam
Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal has demanded a Supreme Court-monitored judicial investigation into the alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple, calling the Uttar Pradesh government's Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe a 'mere farce.' Speaking in Guruvayur on July 11, 2026, Venugopal alleged that the scam occurred with the knowledge of trust office-bearers appointed by the central government, that CCTV footage was deliberately erased, and that security personnel warnings were ignored. He accused BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Uttar Pradesh of shielding the real culprits and questioned their unwillingness to agree to a Supreme Court-supervised inquiry. Venugopal said the Congress party would raise the issue forcefully in the upcoming Parliament session starting July 20 and seek a response from the Prime Minister. He also linked the alleged mismanagement to similar reports from Badrinath and Kedarnath temples.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Congress Leader Rajeev Gowda Demands PM Modi Take Responsibility for Alleged Ram Temple Trust Misappropriation
On July 10, 2026, Congress research wing head Professor M.V. Rajeev Gowda stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi must take responsibility for alleged misappropriation of funds in the Ram Temple Trust, given that Modi took credit for the temple's construction and inauguration. Gowda noted that all Trust appointments were made by the Union Government, with Home Minister Amit Shah playing a central role. He questioned why the Trust was exempted from the RTI Act and why senior officials Champath Rai and Anil Mishra resigned. Gowda criticized the Uttar Pradesh government's Special Investigative Team (SIT) as compromised, alleging it targets only minor figures. He demanded the immediate arrest of Rai and Mishra, registration of an FIR, and an independent Supreme Court-supervised inquiry. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear related pleas on July 13.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.CPI Questions PM Modi's Silence Over Ram Temple Donation Embezzlement Case
On July 10, 2026, Communist Party of India (CPI) General Secretary D. Raja held a press conference in New Delhi, reiterating the party's demand for a high-level judicial probe into alleged embezzlement of donation funds collected at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Raja accused the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Union government of betraying public trust and criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for remaining silent on the issue. He compared Modi's silence to his earlier remarks on theft from the Jagannath Temple's Ratna Bhandar during the 2024 Odisha election campaign. Raja stated that resignations alone would not suffice and called for a transparent investigation. The CPI also announced a nationwide campaign, including padyatras and outreach programs, to highlight government failures on livelihood, unemployment, and rural distress, culminating in a Delhi rally on September 1. The article also references related developments, including an AAP signature campaign and a Supreme Court hearing scheduled for July 13.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Ram Temple donation case: SIT uncovers alleged theft during donation counting
The Uttar Pradesh government's Special Investigation Team (SIT) has found prima facie evidence of alleged theft during the counting of donations at Ayodhya's Ram Temple. The investigation, reported by The Hindu on July 10, 2026, suggests irregularities in the handling of funds collected for the temple. The SIT's findings indicate potential misappropriation of donations, though details on the amount or specific individuals involved have not been disclosed in this report. The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of financial management at the high-profile religious site.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.U.P. BJP Chief Promises Action in Ram Temple Donation Theft Case
Uttar Pradesh BJP president Pankaj Chaudhary described the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya as a 'very unfortunate' incident and vowed strict action against those involved. Speaking in Mirzapur on July 9, 2026, he said both state and central governments are ensuring a thorough investigation. Chaudhary dismissed criticism from opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, accusing them of hypocrisy regarding Lord Ram. He defended the SIT probe and rejected calls for government control of the temple, stating the trust managing it operates independently. Despite the controversy, Chaudhary expressed confidence that the BJP would win the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections for a third consecutive term, citing the work of the central and state governments.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Akhilesh Yadav says donation theft at Ram temple has tarnished India's image
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP of tarnishing India's image abroad following alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. In a July 8, 2026 statement, Yadav claimed the news of theft of offerings and contributions has spread worldwide, angering followers of Sanatan Dharma, especially those who donated. He alleged that investor confidence is being affected, as global investors fear their investments may not be safe if the government cannot safeguard temple donations. Yadav also rejected allegations linking him to an accused in the case, calling them false and made by discredited individuals. The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the allegations, which has arrested eight people. The temple trust accepted the resignations of its general secretary Champat Rai and member Anil Mishra amid mounting scrutiny.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Akhilesh Yadav Accuses BJP of Power Struggle in Ram Temple Donation Row
Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav alleged on July 6, 2026, that a power struggle between the BJP and the Uttar Pradesh government is compromising religious faith in Ayodhya. Speaking at a press conference in Lucknow, he claimed the leadership is more focused on internal rivalries than protecting devotion, referencing the Ram temple donation controversy. Yadav stated that the SIT probe into the matter reflects this conflict, noting that the investigation was handled by Lucknow before Delhi could act. He appealed to religious leaders, the Supreme Court, and the public to take cognisance, and also criticized the BJP for neglecting the Jayaprakash Narayan International Centre (JPNIC) due to animosity towards the socialist movement.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Ram Temple Trust Meeting Amid Donation Theft Allegations; Treasurer Distances Himself
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is holding a crucial meeting on July 6, 2026, to address the resignation of general secretary Champat Rai and member Anil Mishra following allegations of donation theft at the Ayodhya Ram Temple. Treasurer Govind Dev Giri distanced himself from the controversy, stating he had no role in daily donations and that audit reports are safe. The Uttar Pradesh government's Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing the allegations, with statements recorded from key trust officials. Opposition leaders, including Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, have escalated attacks on the BJP and RSS, alleging a ₹20,000 crore loot. The BJP has defended itself, accusing opposition parties of insulting Hindu faith. The Vishva Hindu Parishad has urged police to examine opposition leaders' claims.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Uddhav Thackeray announces 'Ram Raksha' protest over Ayodhya temple donation theft allegations
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on July 3, 2026, announced a 'Ram Raksha' agitation in Maharashtra starting July 5, calling on supporters to hold the BJP accountable for alleged large-scale embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple. The protest will begin at Dadar's Hanuman temple with recitations of Hanuman Stotra and Hanuman Chalisa. Thackeray accused the BJP of political capitalization on the Ram temple movement and questioned if stolen funds were used to poach opposition legislators. He invoked former PM Vajpayee's remark, saying 'Ab Hindu maaf nahi karega.' Eight individuals linked to the temple's donation process have been arrested following an FIR on June 25 based on a Special Investigation Team report. Thackeray demanded strict punishment for those involved and stressed that 'loot in the name of Hindutva' would not be tolerated.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Akhilesh Yadav: BJP Will Get Neither Donations Nor Votes Over Ram Temple Embezzlement
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, speaking at a press conference in Lucknow on July 2, 2026, alleged that the BJP will face severe public backlash due to the reported embezzlement of donations at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya. He claimed the news has spread to every village in Uttar Pradesh, predicting the party will lose both donations and votes. Invoking Lord Ram and the Indian Constitution, Yadav accused the BJP of betraying religious faith, propriety (maryada), and democratic principles. He also alleged that the ruling party is attempting to suppress the issue through intimidation and distraction. Yadav expressed support for lawyers demanding an FIR against temple trust officials and asserted that public resentment is rising, with citizens awaiting the chance to vote the BJP out. He further accused the state government of systemic corruption across administrative departments.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Congress leader Venugopal writes to PM Modi, demands Supreme Court-monitored probe into Ram Mandir donation embezzlement
Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 2, 2026, demanding a Supreme Court-monitored investigation into the alleged embezzlement of hundreds of crores of rupees in donations at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Venugopal termed it a 'Chanda Chori mega scandal' and a 'monumental betrayal' of the Hindu faith. He questioned the credibility of the Uttar Pradesh government's Special Investigation Team (SIT), calling it an 'eyewash' and alleging that the probe was being used to destroy evidence and shield 'big fish.' Venugopal claimed that a highly organized racket operated within the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, noting that cash and jewelry were siphoned off daily, 7-8 months of CCTV footage were destroyed, and a whistleblower who flagged irregularities was removed. He called the alleged fraud a profound injustice to Lord Ram's devotees.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Ayodhya Temple Donation Theft Alleged, Sparks Political Fallout
The arrest of eight individuals for allegedly embezzling donation cash and valuables at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has triggered significant repercussions for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-led Sangh Parivar and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The scandal has led to questions about the integrity of those who spearheaded the Ram Temple movement, resulting in a loss of moral high ground for both the BJP and the Sangh Parivar. This comes at a critical time, with the Uttar Pradesh Assembly election scheduled for early next year. The case highlights the sordidness of the embezzlement issue and its potential long-term consequences on the political and religious narrative surrounding the temple.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.U.P. Congress Delegation Allowed to Pray at Ram Temple After Standoff with Ayodhya Administration
A delegation of Uttar Pradesh Congress leaders, led by state chief Ajay Rai, was allowed to offer prayers at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on June 30, 2026, following a day-long face-off with the local administration. The Congress members alleged they were placed under house arrest or detained to prevent their visit. The delegation sought to highlight allegations of embezzlement of donations made at the temple, a case in which eight people have been arrested. Rai criticized the ongoing investigation as biased, called for dissolving the temple trust, and demanded the inclusion of Shankaracharyas, seers, and local residents. Congress workers held protests across several Uttar Pradesh districts against the police action. The delegation included MPs Kishori Lal Sharma, Rakesh Rathore, Ujjwal Raman Singh, and Tanuj Punia.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.U.P. Congress Chief and MPs Prevented from Visiting Ayodhya Ram Temple, Allege House Arrest
On June 30, 2026, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai and four Congress Lok Sabha MPs were prevented from visiting the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Rai claims he was placed under house arrest in a university guest house, with doors locked from outside. The delegation intended to pray and raise concerns about alleged embezzlement of temple donations, which is under police investigation with eight arrests made. Rai accused the BJP government of dictatorial practices, contrasting his treatment with VIP access given to Arvind Kejriwal. Amethi MP Kishori Lal Sharma argued that darshan (temple visitation) is a right of every devotee, regardless of political ideology, and questioned the denial on political grounds. The incident highlights escalating political tensions around the Ram Temple and ongoing corruption allegations.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Congress Attacks Government Over Ram Temple Donation Theft Case
The Congress party escalated its political attack on the Indian government over an alleged embezzlement scandal involving donations to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. On June 30, 2026, Congress described the episode as a 'maha paap' (cardinal sin) and questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence on the matter. The opposition demanded that Modi accept responsibility for the Trust overseeing the temple, after previously claiming credit for its construction and consecration. The development marks a significant political confrontation as the controversy gains momentum.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.UP Congress Chief Placed Under House Arrest Amid Ram Temple Donation Row Escalation
The political controversy over the alleged Ram Temple donation scam in Uttar Pradesh has intensified, with the state Congress chief reportedly placed under house arrest a day before a planned visit to Ayodhya. The Congress party has accused the Uttar Pradesh government, led by the BJP, of preventing its leaders from traveling to the temple city as part of a broader confrontation over the donation scandal. The article, published by The Hindu on June 30, 2026, highlights the escalating tensions between the Congress and the state administration, marking a significant development in the ongoing political row. The incident underscores the charged atmosphere surrounding the Ram Temple issue, which has become a major flashpoint in Indian politics.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Congress Accuses BJP of 'New Modi Model' Involving Donation Theft in Ayodhya and Land Grab in Mahakal
On June 24, 2026, the Congress party held a press conference in New Delhi, accusing the BJP of exploiting religious faith for financial and political gain. Congress leaders Pawan Khera and Jitu Patwari alleged that donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya were embezzled by the trust managing the temple, and that Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav's family and associates acquired at least 137 plots (about 168 acres) near the Mahakal Temple in Ujjain since Yadav took office in December 2023. The land purchases are tied to anticipated development ahead of the 2028 Simhastha Maha Kumbh. Khera criticized Prime Minister Modi for remaining silent on both issues, comparing the lack of action to the resignation of former Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan over the Adarsh Housing Society scandal. The allegations highlight rising political tension over corruption and religious sites.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.AAP Accuses Government of Failing to Prosecute Those Behind ₹200 Crore Theft from Ram Temple
On June 16, 2026, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh alleged that authorities have failed to properly investigate and prosecute the theft of over ₹200 crore from donation boxes at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Singh claimed that more than 50 employees are involved in the theft, with daily losses of ₹15-20 lakh during the Kumbh Mela. He stated that only nine people have been arrested and cash recovered, but no action has been taken against the main culprits. Singh accused the BJP of remaining silent on the matter, calling it an insult to devotees of Lord Ram. He demanded that Prime Minister Modi explain the lack of action against corrupt officials in the Ram Temple Trust and called for the Trust to be dissolved. The article also notes that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has started probing the donations issue.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Congress Demands Time-Bound Judicial Probe into Ram Mandir Missing Donations Row
On June 16, 2026, Uttar Pradesh Congress leaders, including state chief Ajay Rai, demanded a time-bound investigation by a sitting High Court judge into alleged missing donations from the Ram Mandir trust. Rai accused the BJP and RSS of 'organised plunder' of hundreds of crores of rupees, calling the government-formed Special Investigation Team (SIT) a 'farce' because the officer leading it is himself under investigation for the 2025 Mahakumbh stampede. Rai stated that trust members, including Champat Rai Bansal (who absconded), Anil Mishra, and Gopal Rao, have deep links to the BJP government, implicating Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Separately, activist Santosh Dubey filed a police complaint in Ayodhya against the trust secretary and three others for embezzling donations. The Congress party argues that the nation's faith has been betrayed and sold in the name of religion.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Ex-BJP MP calls Ram Temple funds row 'serious'; Akhilesh Yadav says it insults Sanatana Dharma
A political controversy has erupted in India over alleged financial irregularities in donations to the Ram Temple Trust in Ayodhya. The Uttar Pradesh government formed a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter. Former BJP MP Vinay Katiyar, a key figure in the Ram Temple movement, called the allegations 'very serious' and accused some trust members of being 'thieves'. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav termed the investigation an 'insult to Sanatana Dharma', expressing dismay that temple priests would be probed. The Congress party, through MP Abhishek Singhvi, said the allegations place a 'question mark' on faith and accountability, demanding an independent probe. Congress national secretary Shahnawaz Alam also flagged suspicious real estate dealings around the temple site. The row has drawn sharp political reactions, with opposition parties accusing the BJP of evading responsibility over the temple it championed.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.