Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday warned that anyone who tampers with the faith of Sanatan Dharma will not be spared, amid the ongoing row over alleged fund theft at the Ayodhya temple. Speaking at an event, Adityanath said Ayodhya is a symbol of faith for millions of people and of Sanatan Dharma.
Ayodhya temple fund theft row
The controversy erupted after reports emerged of alleged misappropriation of funds collected for the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The temple trust, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, has denied any wrongdoing, but opposition parties have demanded a probe.
Adityanath did not directly address the allegations but made it clear that any attempt to undermine the sanctity of the temple or the faith of devotees would be dealt with strictly. “Ayodhya is not just a city; it is the faith of crores of people. Whoever tampers with the faith of Sanatan Dharma will not be spared,” he said.
Political reactions
The opposition has seized on the issue, with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav demanding a judicial inquiry into the alleged fund misuse. “The government must ensure transparency in the temple construction. If there is any theft, those responsible must be punished,” Yadav said.
BJP leaders have dismissed the allegations as politically motivated. State BJP spokesperson Rakesh Tripathi said, “The temple trust is managed by responsible people. The opposition is trying to create confusion among devotees.”
Impact on devotees
The Ram temple construction has been a long-standing demand of Hindus, and the foundation stone was laid in August 2020. The temple is expected to be completed by 2024. The fund theft allegations have caused concern among devotees who have donated generously for the project.
According to temple trust officials, over Rs 3,000 crore has been collected through donations so far. The trust has assured that all funds are accounted for and audited regularly.
