Ram Mandir Donations Row: VHP Seeks Police Action if Kejriwal, Priyanka Gandhi Fail to Prove Claims

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has urged the Ayodhya Police to question Opposition leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, over their public statements on the alleged embezzlement of donations made to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, saying they should either substantiate their allegations with evidence or face legal action if the claims are found to be false.

VHP International President Senior Advocate Alok Kumar has written to the DSP, Ayodhya, requesting that leaders who have publicly made allegations be summoned and asked to disclose the basis of their claims.

According to Kumar, several political leaders have cited specific figures while alleging financial irregularities in the handling of temple donations, suggesting that they may possess information relevant to the ongoing investigation.

"If they know the facts, they should assist the investigation by providing evidence," he said.

The VHP leader named Kejriwal, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ram Gopal Yadav and other Opposition leaders, contending that their public statements indicate familiarity with the facts of the case. He urged the police to record their statements and examine any documents or material in their possession.

Kumar further said that if the leaders fail to substantiate their allegations, the investigating agency should take appropriate legal action against them for making what he described as baseless accusations. He maintained that the investigation should proceed impartially and that anyone possessing relevant information should cooperate with the probe.

The demand comes amid continuing political controversy over the alleged embezzlement of donations and offerings made at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

The alleged embezzlement came to light after some media reports flagged it, and later an SIT was formed to investigate the matter. Later, an FIR was registered at Ayodhya's Ram Janmabhoomi Police Station under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The FIR names eight accused, including contractual staff and sanitation workers engaged at the temple premises, alleging systematic theft of devotees' offerings over a prolonged period.

The VHP has, however, maintained that no one is being shielded in the matter and has asserted that the Uttar Pradesh government is committed to ensuring a fair investigation. Kumar reiterated that the truth should emerge through the probe and that political allegations must also be subjected to scrutiny.