In a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its affiliate, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the Indian National Congress has alleged a three-pronged strategy of "vote chori, seat chori, chanda chori" (vote theft, seat theft, and donation theft). This accusation centers on the alleged embezzlement of funds intended for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for their silence on the matter, calling it "shocking." He emphasized that the RSS's response to the controversy was "disgraceful and shameful." Preliminary findings indicate significant embezzlement of donations, amounting to thousands of crores. Following these findings, an FIR was registered on June 25, leading to the arrest of eight individuals. Authorities have recovered nearly Rs 80 lakh in cash and some foreign currency from six of the accused.
Ramesh questioned the involvement of individuals associated with the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, suggesting that their positions were influenced by the BJP-RSS ecosystem. He also criticized the RSS for attempting to "give certificates to others for integrity, honesty, and nationalism" while being implicated in the alleged scam.
The Congress leader called for an inquiry by a sitting Supreme Court judge and urged the toughest action against all the accused. He also expressed concern over the silence of the Prime Minister and Home Minister on the issue, stating that their lack of response was "beyond imagination."
The BJP has yet to respond to these allegations. The controversy has intensified political tensions, with the Congress demanding accountability and transparency regarding the management of funds for the Ram Temple.
The investigation is ongoing, and further developments are awaited.