Politics – Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge Demands Public Apology Over Ram Temple Donation Row
Politics – Temple donation investigation updates and political developments – Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Monday intensified his criticism of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) after senior RSS functionary Sunil Ambekar expressed sorrow over the reported irregularities linked to the counting of donation offerings at the Ram Temple. Referring to Ambekar’s remarks, Kharge said the organisation should issue a public apology instead of limiting its response to internal discussions. He also renewed his demand that the RSS be formally registered, stating that such a move would settle the ongoing debate over its organisational status.
Kharge Targets RSS Leadership
Speaking to reporters, Kharge questioned the role of the RSS and its affiliated organisations in the controversy. He argued that any apology should be made openly before the public rather than within what he described as the organisation’s own circle. During his remarks, he also referred to historical instances involving Vinayak Damodar Savarkar while criticising the RSS’s approach. Addressing RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Kharge challenged him to provide official registration documents for the organisation, asserting that doing so would answer his long-standing questions regarding its legal status.
RSS Expresses Concern Over Donation Counting Irregularities
The political exchange follows comments made by RSS Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar at the conclusion of the annual Akhil Bharatiya Prant Pracharak Baithak held in Belagavi, Karnataka. Ambekar said members of the meeting expressed deep concern over the reported irregularities involving the counting of donation box collections at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir.
He stated that the organisation has confidence in the investigation currently being conducted by the police and the Special Investigation Team (SIT). According to Ambekar, the RSS expects the ongoing inquiry to reach a decisive stage and believes appropriate action will help address the matter.
Appeal to Protect Devotees’ Faith
Ambekar also stressed that institutions responsible for managing the temple should take every possible step to ensure similar incidents do not occur in the future. He said maintaining the trust and religious sentiments of millions of devotees remains essential and that preventive measures should be strengthened to safeguard the integrity of donation management.
His remarks reflected the broader concern that any lapse involving temple offerings could affect public confidence and the faith associated with the Ram Temple.
SIT Investigation Continues
The alleged misappropriation of donation money has now developed into a major political issue, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, where the SIT is continuing its investigation into the reported irregularities. Authorities are examining evidence to determine the extent of the alleged misconduct and identify those responsible.
According to findings from the preliminary investigation, officials detected significant security shortcomings inside the room where donation offerings were counted. Investigators believe these weaknesses may have created opportunities for repeated financial irregularities.
CCTV Footage Reveals Multiple Suspicious Incidents
The initial SIT inquiry has indicated that the suspected wrongdoing may not have been limited to isolated cases. Investigators reviewing surveillance recordings reportedly identified several instances in which members of the counting staff were allegedly seen concealing cash bundles in clothing, pockets, footwear, and other personal belongings.
The CCTV footage examined by the investigation reportedly covers the period between April 27 and June 5. During this review, investigators identified around 70 incidents considered suspicious, leading the SIT to suspect that the alleged theft may have followed a recurring pattern rather than representing a single occurrence.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are expected to continue examining evidence before reaching final conclusions. No official findings have yet been announced regarding individual culpability, while the case continues to attract political attention alongside the criminal inquiry.