New Delhi: The Congress on Monday questioned the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over the alleged theft of donations from the Ram temple in Ayodhya. Congress general secretary in charge of communications Jairam Ramesh demanded an independent investigation supervised by the Supreme Court, while insisting that a full account of the temple offerings be made public, the roles of all responsible parties be examined, and no official be shielded from accountability.
In a post on social media, Ramesh criticized the ruling party, asserting that the BJP, which rose to power by invoking the name of Lord Ram, would meet its downfall due to the sin of the alleged theft. He alleged that the special investigation team was constituted in a manner that suited those accused in the case. According to Ramesh, the massive theft at the temple came to light on June 4, 2026, and days later the state government formed an SIT upon a request from the Trust, which ultimately submitted a final report granting clean chits to senior figures.
Ramesh claimed that the theft was captured on camera numerous times between late April and early June 2026, showing staff members responsible for counting funds hiding currency note bundles. He argued that those responsible for the treasury had to answer significant questions, noting that saints in Ayodhya had pointed out that senior figures ought to have been aware of the fund inflows and outflows. He also maintained that the extent of the theft remained hidden, as the country had not been informed of the total amount of money or the value of the precious items allegedly stolen.
The Congress leader highlighted that low-level staff members were jailed while those in senior positions remained free, noting that no former office-bearer of the Trust was named in the initial FIR registered in late June. He questioned why there had been no rigorous interrogations by federal agencies like the Enforcement Directorate or the Central Bureau of Investigation. Ramesh stated that the opposition could not expect the state government to investigate individuals linked to the Sangh Parivar, thereby necessitating a transparent and independent probe under the supervision of the apex court.
Reiterating demands for a complete public accounting of all offerings and strict accountability, Ramesh noted that months had passed since the incident surfaced without any remarks from the Prime Minister or the Chief Minister. The Congress has previously criticized the handling of the SIT probe, pointing to delays in registering an FIR and questioning whether the investigation was intended merely to target low-level workers while protecting those in authority.