Shinde hits back at critics over Ram Mandir fund theft
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday launched a sharp counterattack against those criticising the alleged theft of funds at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. He accused them of having previously looted the Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai, one of the richest temples in the country.
Speaking at a public event in Thane, Shinde said, "Those who are now shedding crocodile tears over the Ram Mandir fund theft are the same people who committed the sin of looting the Siddhivinayak Temple. They have no moral right to point fingers."
Allegations of mismanagement at Siddhivinayak Temple
The Siddhivinayak Temple, located in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, is one of the wealthiest temples in India, with annual donations running into crores of rupees. Over the years, there have been multiple allegations of mismanagement and misappropriation of funds at the temple trust. Shinde's remarks appeared to target the opposition Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray, which has been vocal in criticising the BJP-led state government over the Ram Mandir incident.
Earlier this week, reports emerged that a significant amount of cash and gold offerings made at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya had gone missing. The Uttar Pradesh Police have registered a case and are investigating the matter. Opposition parties, including the Shiv Sena (UBT), have demanded a thorough probe and accused the Yogi Adityanath government of negligence.
Political slugfest intensifies
Shinde's comments have further escalated the political war of words between the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi. The Shiv Sena (UBT) quickly hit back, with spokesperson Sanjay Raut stating, "Instead of diverting attention, Shinde should focus on the rising crime and corruption in Maharashtra. The people will not be fooled by such baseless allegations."
The Ram Mandir fund theft has become a major political issue in Uttar Pradesh and beyond, with the opposition using it to question the transparency and management of the temple trust. The BJP has dismissed the allegations as a conspiracy to defame the temple and the government.
Background of the controversy
The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is under construction and is expected to be completed by early 2027. The temple trust has collected massive donations from devotees across the country and abroad. The alleged theft of funds has raised concerns about the security and accountability of the donations.
Shinde, who broke away from the Shiv Sena in 2022 to form a government with the BJP, has been a staunch supporter of the Ram Mandir project. His latest remarks are seen as an attempt to deflect criticism and rally his Hindu nationalist base ahead of the upcoming local body elections in Maharashtra.
