RSS Demands Probe into Ayodhya Temple Donation Theft; Bajrang Dal Leader Claims Talk with PM Modi

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding the alleged pilfering of donations intended for the Ayodhya Ram Temple, demanding a comprehensive investigation and strict punishment for any individuals found guilty. This marks the first time a senior RSS leader has commented on the matter.

Dattatreya Hosabale, the RSS's general secretary, stated that it is crucial for those implicated to face severe consequences after a thorough investigation. He also appealed to the Hindu community to maintain patience and restraint, warning against attempts by "anti-Hindu and anti-national forces" to malign the faith by exploiting this "unfortunate incident."

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It is essential to ensure that anyone found guilty after the investigation faces severe punishment.

The controversy has intensified following public statements by former BJP MP Vinay Katiyar, who suggested that key figures within the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust might face jail time. Katiyar has called for the trust's reconstitution and indicated he has discussed the donation issue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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It is natural for the entire Hindu society, including the RSS, to expect the trust to treat this 'highly condemnable incident' as an extraordinary matter and take effective steps to rectify all shortcomings in temple management and operations.

Eight arrests have been made in connection with the case, and two prominent figures, Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, have resigned from the trust. The RSS has expressed its expectation that the trust will treat this "highly condemnable incident" seriously, implement effective measures to rectify management shortcomings, and ensure the unwavering faith of devotees remains intact. The organization supports the government-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) and calls for reforms within the trust's operations.

The theft allegations have placed the RSS and its political affiliate, the ruling BJP, in a difficult position, particularly with upcoming assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh. The issue is also slated for discussion at the RSS's upcoming Prant Pracharak Baithak in Karnataka. The RSS emphasized the deep pain and anger felt across the Hindu society due to the theft, given the temple's significance as a center of faith built through generations of struggle and sacrifice.

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The unfortunate incident of theft in the donation boxes kept at the Shri Ram Lalla temple in Ayodhya has deeply hurt the sentiments and faith of the entire society and Ram devotees; we are all extremely pained and angered by this event.