Ram Temple Embezzlement Rocks Ayodhya: Opposition Slams RSS 'Late Stance'

A major scandal has hit Ayodhya revered Ram Temple, with the opposition Congress and Shiv Sena-UBT sharply criticizing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for its 'late' response to alleged donation embezzlement. This political firestorm ignited after RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale publicly condemned the thefts and called for strict punishment, a move opponents are calling a belated reaction to a long-standing issue that has deeply hurt devotees' faith. The allegations, which include misappropriation of millions in donations, have seen a Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Uttar Pradesh government launch a wide-ranging probe. The SIT is now set to re-audit the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust accounts for the last five years, following initial reports of major financial irregularities. Eight individuals linked to the temple's donation counting have been arrested, and significant amounts of cash and valuables recovered from them, while key Trust officials, including General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, have resigned amidst the controversy. As the SIT continues its extended investigation, which might soon involve central agencies like CBI or ED, the political heat is rising with a critical Trust meeting scheduled for July 6 to decide on the resignations of top officials. The Faizabad Bar Association has taken a strong stand, refusing to represent the accused, further intensifying public and political scrutiny over the temple's financial management and the accountability of those in charge.