The Congress party has accused the Uttar Pradesh police of placing its leaders under house arrest to block a planned visit to the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The delegation, led by state Congress chief Ajay Rai, intended to offer prayers but was allegedly detained at their residences, sparking a political firestorm.
Alleged house arrest of Congress leaders
According to Congress officials, party workers and leaders in several districts were prevented from leaving their homes on the morning of the proposed visit. Ajay Rai, along with other senior leaders, claimed they were effectively confined by police forces without any formal notice. The party described the action as an authoritarian move by the BJP-led state government to suppress devotees' access to the temple.
Donation controversy escalates
The planned visit came amid ongoing allegations of embezzlement of funds at the Ram temple. Eight individuals have been sent to judicial custody in connection with the case, which involves misappropriation of donations collected for the temple construction. Congress leaders said they wanted to offer donations themselves and seek clarity on the fund usage. However, the police action prevented them from doing so.
Constitutional concerns raised
Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala stated, "Lord Ram is a symbol of national unity, not a political property. Preventing any devotee from visiting the temple violates fundamental rights under the Constitution." The party argued that the BJP government is using the temple for political gains while suppressing opposition voices. They have demanded a thorough investigation into the donation controversy and an end to what they call political vendetta.
Government response
The Uttar Pradesh government denied the allegations, stating that no leaders were placed under house arrest. Police officials claimed that routine security measures were in place to maintain law and order, and no restrictions were imposed on Congress leaders. However, Congress leaders produced videos and statements from party workers claiming otherwise.
