Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Saturday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the alleged Ram Temple donation theft case, questioning why the issue has not been addressed in the Prime Minister’s monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat. The Congress leader alleged that those responsible had betrayed the faith of devotees and accused the BJP of remaining silent on the matter.

His remarks came amid continued political exchanges over allegations of financial irregularities involving donations meant for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The BJP has yet to issue a detailed response to Kharge’s latest comments, while the Congress has stepped up its demand for a thorough investigation into the allegations.

Priyank Kharge questions PM’s silence

Speaking to reporters, Priyank Kharge referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role during the Ram Temple consecration ceremony and inauguration.

He asked when the Prime Minister would address the alleged donation theft case during Mann Ki Baat, saying that the temple’s Pran Pratishtha and inauguration were both associated with the Prime Minister.

Kharge also questioned the silence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on the issue.

Referring to Yogi Adityanath’s recent remarks urging people not to play with the emotions of Ram devotees, Kharge alleged that those associated with the ruling party had failed to safeguard the faith of devotees.

He further accused certain individuals of exploiting religion for political purposes and claimed they had betrayed public trust.

Congress demands action in alleged donation case

Separately, the Congress intensified its attack on the Centre over the alleged embezzlement of donations collected for the Ram Temple.

Addressing a press conference, Congress spokesperson Akhilesh Prasad Singh questioned Prime Minister Modi’s silence on the issue and demanded immediate action against those allegedly responsible.

He described the allegations as not merely a financial irregularity but a betrayal of the faith of millions of devotees who had contributed to the temple project.

The Congress also demanded that the investigation be conducted under the supervision of a sitting Supreme Court judge, alleging that the matter required an independent inquiry.

Party seeks dissolution of trust

Akhilesh Prasad Singh further demanded the immediate arrest of individuals against whom serious allegations have been made.

He also called for the dissolution of the trust managing the temple funds, alleging that it had lost the confidence of the public.

The Congress maintained that complete transparency was necessary to ensure accountability regarding donations made by devotees from across the country.

Political row intensifies

The alleged donation theft case has become the latest flashpoint between the BJP and the Congress.

While Congress leaders have questioned the government’s response and sought a judicial investigation, the BJP has previously maintained that due legal processes should be followed in matters involving financial allegations.

Authorities are expected to continue examining the allegations in accordance with the ongoing investigation.

Investigation awaited

The allegations surrounding the alleged theft or embezzlement of Ram Temple donations continue to generate political debate.

At present, the Congress has demanded a court-monitored probe and stricter action against those allegedly involved, while further developments will depend on the findings of the investigating agencies.

The matter is expected to remain a key political issue as both parties continue to exchange accusations over accountability and transparency.