The Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) Chandigarh unit protested outside the Municipal Corporation building in Sector 17 over the alleged theft of offerings worth crores of rupees at Lord Shri Ram’s temple in Ayodhya. The protest coincided with the visit of Chandigarh Administrator-cum-Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria for a Special House meeting of the local civic body. AAP expressed concerns that the theft of devotees’ offerings has deeply affected the faith and sentiments of millions of Ram devotees nationwide.
The party highlighted that questions surrounding jewellery, cash, and other donations offered with devotion at the Ayodhya Ram Temple have caused distress among devotees across the country. It raised issues about the “Ayodhya Model” that has faced scrutiny over alleged irregularities in construction work, land purchases, and offerings. AAP urged for a thorough, impartial, and timely investigation into the matter to uphold transparency and combat corruption effectively.
AAP criticized the limited scope of investigations, warning that focusing only on lower-level employees could give the impression of shielding higher-ups. It emphasized that accountability should extend to all levels without favoritism. The party demanded answers from Chandigarh Administrator Kataria and the BJP, questioning the safety of devotees’ offerings even at Lord Shri Ram’s temple in BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh and urging for accountability to maintain the trust of devotees.
The party stressed that issues concerning Lord Shri Ram’s temple transcend political affiliations, emphasizing the need for truth and justice in matters related to devotees’ faith. AAP accused the BJP and the administration of using police to suppress dissenting voices and public sentiments during the protest.
