Hariprasad accuses BJP of lack of commitment over Ram Temple embezzlement
Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president B K Hariprasad has alleged that the embezzlement of funds in the Ram Temple construction reflects the Bharatiya Janata Party's lack of commitment to the project. Speaking to reporters in Mangaluru on Tuesday, Hariprasad said a Special Investigation Team (SIT) would not be sufficient to bring out the truth and demanded an investigation under the supervision of a sitting judge of the Supreme Court.
Details of the embezzlement allegations
Hariprasad claimed that the alleged financial irregularities in the Ram Temple trust amount to a serious breach of public trust. He said that the BJP, which has been vociferous about the temple's construction, must now answer for the alleged misappropriation of funds. The KPCC chief pointed out that the temple's construction is a matter of faith for millions, and any corruption in its management is unacceptable.
Demand for Supreme Court supervision
“An SIT appointed by the state government will not inspire confidence. We demand a probe under the supervision of a sitting Supreme Court judge to ensure a fair and transparent investigation,” Hariprasad said. He added that the Congress party would raise the issue in the Karnataka Assembly and seek a resolution calling for a high-level inquiry.
Political implications
The allegation comes amid heightened political tensions in Karnataka, where the Congress and BJP are locked in a fierce battle for influence. Hariprasad's remarks are seen as an attempt to corner the BJP on a sensitive issue ahead of the upcoming local body elections. The BJP has dismissed the allegations as baseless and accused the Congress of playing politics with religion.
Background of the Ram Temple project
The Ram Temple in Ayodhya is being built by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust, which was set up by the central government. The project has received massive donations from devotees across the country. Reports of financial irregularities first surfaced earlier this year, prompting the Uttar Pradesh government to order an SIT probe. However, Hariprasad argued that the SIT's credibility is questionable given the BJP's control over the state government.
“The BJP cannot be both the judge and the accused. A Supreme Court-monitored investigation is the only way to restore public faith,” he asserted.
