The Congress party has accused the Uttar Pradesh police of placing its state leaders, including Ajay Rai, under house arrest to prevent a planned visit to the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The alleged action comes amid a deepening controversy over donations collected for the temple.
Congress delegation blocked
According to Congress officials, party leaders were detained at their residences on the morning of the scheduled visit. Ajay Rai, the state Congress president, was among those reportedly confined. The party claims the police action was aimed at stopping them from offering prayers at the Ram temple, which they had planned as part of a political outreach.
Alleged political interference
The Congress accused the BJP-led state government of authoritarianism, asserting that the arrests were an attempt to suppress devotees' access to the temple. Party spokesperson said, "This is a clear abuse of power. The government is using police to prevent elected representatives from visiting a place of worship." They argued that the move violates constitutional rights, as Lord Ram is a national symbol, not a political one.
Donation controversy escalates
The visit was scheduled amid ongoing allegations of embezzlement of funds collected for the Ram temple construction. Eight individuals have been sent to judicial custody in connection with the case. The Congress has demanded a thorough investigation into the handling of donations, which amount to crores of rupees. The party claims the BJP is trying to divert attention from the scandal by targeting opposition leaders.
Constitutional concerns raised
Congress leaders have raised constitutional concerns, stating that preventing devotees from visiting Ayodhya violates fundamental rights. They said, "Every citizen has the right to freedom of movement and worship. The government cannot selectively block political opponents." The party has announced plans to challenge the alleged house arrest in court.
As of now, the Uttar Pradesh police have not issued an official statement on the matter. The incident has intensified the political confrontation between the Congress and the BJP ahead of upcoming elections.
