'All Donation Thieves Are in BJP': Congress Launches Blistering Attack, Seeks SC-Monitored SIT Probe

The Congress on Sunday intensified its attack on the BJP over the alleged theft of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, accusing the ruling party of failing to protect the faith and contributions of millions of devotees. Senior Congress leader Pramod Tiwari alleged that while not every BJP leader was a "donation thief", all those involved in such acts belonged to the ruling party, escalating the political confrontation over the issue.

Addressing a press conference, Tiwari claimed that alleged irregularities linked to the Ram Mandir dated back to the early years of the temple movement and asserted that the BJP had used the temple issue for political gains rather than prioritising its construction. He further alleged that the temple was ultimately built following the Supreme Court's verdict and criticised the timing of the consecration ceremony, claiming it was conducted before the temple was fully completed.

The Congress leader also questioned the functioning of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, alleging that the handling of devotees' donations lacked accountability. He demanded a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe under the supervision of the Supreme Court, insisting that those responsible for the alleged theft be punished. Tiwari said the party would continue raising the issue both inside Parliament and before the public, arguing that the matter was directly linked to the faith of crores of devotees.

The remarks come as the investigation into the alleged theft of donations at the Ayodhya temple enters its final phase. According to trust member Mahant Dinendra Das, the probe into alleged irregularities involving gold, silver and cash offerings has gathered pace, with investigators questioning people inside the temple premises.

In response to the controversy, the trust has significantly tightened its donation management system. Since July 25, every stage of collecting, transporting, sealing and counting donations has been placed under continuous videographic surveillance. Around 40 donation boxes are now emptied in phases instead of simultaneously, while 360-degree cameras, additional CCTV systems and an eight-member monitoring team, including bank officials and trust representatives, have been deployed to enhance transparency.

Police have arrested multiple accused in connection with the alleged theft, and the investigation remains underway.