Ram Mandir Donations – Kharge Questions RSS Response as SIT Probe Continues
Ram Mandir Donations – Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Monday criticised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh over its response to allegations of irregularities involving donations collected for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. His remarks followed a statement by RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale calling for strict action against anyone found responsible after an ongoing investigation.
Speaking to reporters in Kalaburagi, Kharge questioned why the RSS had spoken out only after the matter reached the stage of a formal inquiry. He alleged that the delay raised questions about the role of people associated with the organisations involved in the donation collection process.
Kharge Raises Questions Over Delayed Response
Kharge said the RSS did not have the standing to demand punishment without addressing why concerns over the alleged misuse of funds had not been acted upon earlier. He suggested that the matter required greater scrutiny from within the organisations connected to the temple fundraising exercise.
“Who are they to seek punishment? Why did they wait for so long? Their own people did this,” Kharge said, adding that the allegations should be examined thoroughly.
His comments came amid a widening investigation into claims that money donated for the Ayodhya temple was improperly handled. The case has drawn attention because of the scale of public contributions made for the construction and administration of the temple.
RSS Calls for Strict Action After Investigation
Hosabale said the Uttar Pradesh government had set up a Special Investigation Team after a request from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. According to the RSS leader, legal action was initiated after the SIT made recommendations based on its preliminary findings.
He said anyone found guilty during the inquiry should face firm legal consequences. Hosabale also asked the Trust to treat the issue as a serious exception and review its financial and administrative processes to prevent similar concerns in the future.
The RSS general secretary said the Trust should take corrective measures to protect the confidence of devotees who have contributed to the Ram Mandir project. He stressed the importance of transparent financial procedures, efficient administration and accountability in the management of temple affairs.
Appeal for Transparency and Public Confidence
In his statement, Hosabale expressed confidence that the Trust would strengthen public faith through improved systems and transparent handling of donations. He said the organisation was expected to ensure that financial management and operational processes met the standards expected by devotees.
The RSS also appealed to people to remain calm while the investigation continues. It said the controversy should not be used to create divisions or damage the reputation of Hindu religious institutions.
The organisation urged devotees to allow the investigation to proceed without pressure or speculation. It also said that any shortcomings identified during the inquiry should be addressed through appropriate institutional action.
SIT Investigation Receives More Time
The Special Investigation Team is continuing its examination of the alleged embezzlement of donations linked to the Ram Temple. On July 1, the Uttar Pradesh government granted the SIT an additional 15 days to expand its inquiry and examine all aspects of the case.
An FIR was registered on June 25 after the SIT submitted a preliminary report on June 23. Eight people were arrested in connection with the case following the registration of the complaint.
The developments also led to changes within the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. General Secretary Champat Rai and former trustee Anil Mishra resigned after taking moral responsibility for the alleged irregularities involving temple donations.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not yet announced final findings on the alleged misuse of funds. Further action is expected to depend on the SIT’s detailed report and the evidence gathered during the extended inquiry.