Congress Raises Questions Over Alleged Irregularities in Ram Temple Trust Donations

A political storm has erupted over alleged financial irregularities linked to donations made to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, with the Congress party demanding accountability, an independent probe, and answers from the Central Government.

Addressing the issue, senior Congress leader Pawan Kumar Bansal said the matter goes beyond a financial controversy and touches upon the faith and trust of millions of devotees who contributed towards the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

According to Congress, devotees from across the country—including farmers, labourers, women and economically weaker families—donated money, jewellery and savings for the temple. The party has alleged that reports of irregularities in the handling of these contributions have raised serious concerns that deserve a transparent investigation.

Questions Over the Trust’s Functioning

The Congress has pointed out that the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was constituted by the Union Government in February 2020 following an announcement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament. The party claims that since the Centre played a key role in the Trust’s formation and appointments, questions of accountability cannot be ignored.

The opposition has sought answers on whether adequate oversight mechanisms existed and who should take responsibility if allegations of financial mismanagement are proven true.

Allegations Under Investigation

The Congress referred to reports of an FIR registered on June 25 following findings by a Special Investigation Team (SIT). It also cited reports of arrests, cash recoveries and the discovery of an allegedly unauthorized donation collection system that was reportedly outside official accounting records.

The party noted that former Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra have resigned from their positions, arguing that the developments warrant further scrutiny.

Congress leaders have also expressed concern over allegations relating to fake receipts, accounting discrepancies and financial irregularities, while questioning why action has largely been focused on lower-level employees rather than senior officials associated with the Trust.

Event Expenditure Also Under Scanner

The party further highlighted reports that investigators are examining expenditure related to major events organized by the Trust. These include the Ram Temple’s Pran Pratishtha ceremony held in January 2024 and other high-profile events conducted subsequently.

Congress has argued that a detailed review of spending patterns and financial records is necessary to ensure complete transparency in the management of public donations.

Congress Demands Independent Probe

The Congress has called for:

• A detailed explanation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the government’s role in the Trust’s formation and oversight.
• A comprehensive investigation into all alleged irregularities.
• A judicial inquiry monitored by the Supreme Court.
• Accountability for any trustee or official found responsible for wrongdoing.
• A forensic audit of donations, expenditures, land transactions and other financial dealings linked to the Trust since 2020.

The party has also proposed restructuring the Trust with the inclusion of religious leaders, independent experts and public representatives to strengthen transparency and accountability.

Faith Above Politics

Concluding its statement, the Congress said Bhagwan Ram is a revered figure for millions of Indians and should remain above political disputes. The party argued that any allegations involving funds donated in the name of faith must be thoroughly investigated and addressed transparently to maintain public trust.

The controversy is likely to intensify in the coming days as political parties continue to spar over the issue and investigations move forward.