Kejriwal accuses BJP of stealing Ayodhya temple funds
Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of stealing funds meant for the construction of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. He claimed that the BJP has been using the name of Lord Ram for decades only to gain political power and money.
Speaking to reporters, Kejriwal said, "They have no fear. They are committing theft openly. For decades, they have used the name of Lord Ram only to come to power. Now, they are stealing money meant for the Ram Mandir." He asserted that AAP is the true follower of Sanatan Dharma, contrasting his party's stance with what he described as the BJP's hypocrisy.
BJP using religion for political gain, says Kejriwal
Kejriwal's remarks come amid allegations that funds collected for the Ram Mandir construction have been misappropriated. He did not provide specific evidence but claimed that the BJP's actions show a lack of fear of God or the law. "For them, Lord Ram is just a means to gain power and money. They have no devotion, only greed," he added.
The AAP chief also criticized the BJP for its handling of the temple project, which has been a flagship promise of the party. The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is a highly sensitive issue in Indian politics, with the BJP having championed its construction for decades. Kejriwal's allegations are likely to intensify political tensions ahead of upcoming state elections.
Political reactions and context
The BJP has not yet officially responded to Kejriwal's accusations. However, party spokespersons have previously dismissed similar allegations as baseless and politically motivated. The Ram Mandir trust, which oversees the construction, has maintained that all funds are accounted for and used transparently.
Kejriwal's statement positions AAP as a defender of Sanatan Dharma, a term often used by the BJP to assert its Hindu nationalist credentials. By claiming that AAP is the true Sanatani, Kejriwal is attempting to counter the BJP's narrative and appeal to Hindu voters. This is part of a broader strategy by AAP to expand its base beyond Delhi and Punjab into other states.
The allegations of fund theft are serious, but no formal investigation has been announced so far. Political analysts say that such accusations could damage the BJP's image among its core supporters if substantiated. However, without concrete proof, they may be seen as mere political rhetoric.
