BJP Leader C T Ravi's Statement on Ram Mandir Donors
BJP national general secretary C T Ravi on Wednesday asserted that only individuals who contributed financially to the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya have the moral authority to question matters related to the temple. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Ravi said, "Those who had opposed the temple construction and questioned the existence of Ram do not have that right."
Context of the Remark
The statement comes amid ongoing political debates in Karnataka over the Ram Mandir, with opposition parties criticizing the BJP's handling of temple-related issues. Ravi's comments were in response to questions about the progress of the temple construction and the management of funds. He emphasized that the BJP respects all opinions but drew a clear distinction between supporters and opponents of the temple movement.
Reactions from Political Rivals
Opposition leaders in Karnataka, including those from the Congress and JD(S), condemned Ravi's remarks as divisive. Congress spokesperson Ramesh Babu said, "This is an attempt to stifle dissent and create a hierarchy of citizenship based on religious donations. Every citizen has the right to question the government."
Ram Mandir Construction Update
The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is being built by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. According to the trust, over 40 crore donors contributed to the construction fund, with collections exceeding ₹6,000 crore. The temple is expected to be completed by January 2024, with the consecration ceremony scheduled for January 22, 2024.
