Amid concerns over donation irregularities at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Mahant Kamal Nayan Das has urged for a fair and prompt investigation, calling for strict action against those responsible for alleged misappropriation of temple funds. The successor to Ram Temple Trust President Mahant Nritya Gopal Das emphasized the need for transparency ahead of the latter’s birth anniversary celebrations commencing on June 19.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is scheduled to visit Ayodhya on Friday to kick off the week-long festivities with the Ram Katha. Mahant Kamal Nayan Das, in a statement to the press, highlighted concerns over individuals transitioning from bicycles to luxury vehicles, prompting the necessity for a thorough inquiry to dispel doubts and ensure clarity.
Reflecting on his involvement in the Ram Mandir movement, Mahant Kamal Nayan Das underscored the essence of patriotism as the driving force behind such initiatives, uniting thousands for a common cause. Addressing the allegations of fund embezzlement through offerings to God, he expressed confidence in the Special Investigation Team (SIT) established under the Chief Minister’s directives to uncover and penalize the wrongdoers.
Stressing the importance of upholding the sanctity of donations received during the temple’s construction, Mahant Kamal Nayan Das detailed the transparency maintained in recording contributions, including cheques, gold, silver, and valuable gifts. Following a police complaint, a three-member SIT, led by Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, Inspector General of Police Kiran S, and Finance Department Special Secretary Neel Ratan, was formed to investigate the alleged discrepancies in temple records.
The controversy arose from local media reports of missing offerings, gaining national attention after Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav highlighted the issue, labeling the disappearance of substantial donations as a matter of great sensitivity and disgrace for the temple trust.
