Priest slams ex-minister Maurya over Ram Mandir donation theft remarks

A prominent Hindu priest has strongly criticized former Uttar Pradesh minister Swami Prasad Maurya, demanding action over his controversial statements regarding an alleged theft of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Mahant Raju Das, a priest at the Hanuman Garhi temple, challenged Maurya's integrity, suggesting he lacked the courage to criticize other religions. "If Swami Prasad Maurya has guts, he should comment on Islam or any other religion. He comments on Sanatan because we are Hindus and do not do anything," Das stated, adding that action should be taken against the former minister.

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If Swami Prasad Maurya has guts, he should comment on Islam or any other religion. He comments on Sanatan because we are Hindus and do not do anything.

The controversy erupted after Maurya questioned the temple's security and Lord Ram's divine protection, given the alleged theft. "The robbers looted crores of rupees. There was theft in the temple and the shrine. They also stole silver and gold. But if Lord Ram could not punish those thieves, how can he protect you? If he cannot protect his own temple, how can he protect you?" Maurya was quoted as saying.

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The robbers looted crores of rupees. There was theft in the temple and the shrine. They also stole silver and gold. But if Lord Ram could not punish those thieves, how can he protect you? If he cannot protect his own temple, how can he protect you?

His remarks ignited a political firestorm. In response, Das urged patience, citing Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's assurance of an impartial investigation. "CM Yogi Adityanath had said that we should all have some patience and everything will be clear... Eight people have been arrested, and I feel that even others who were involved in this will all be arrested," Das told ANI.

The incident has led to the arrest of eight individuals associated with the temple management, with approximately ₹80 lakh recovered from their homes. Amidst the growing controversy, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai and senior trust member Anil Mishra resigned on Friday.

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CM Yogi Adityanath had said that we should all have some patience and everything will be clear... Eight people have been arrested, and I feel that even others who were involved in this will all be arrested.