Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief, Mayawati, expressed serious concerns about reported irregularities involving offerings at the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya. She emphasized the need for a transparent and accountable system to handle temple donations. Mayawati highlighted the importance of adopting best practices from other major temples to prevent such issues.
She urged for systemic reforms in managing temple offerings to avoid future allegations and ensure proper maintenance of accounts. Mayawati cautioned against the criminalization and politicization of religion and crime, advocating for a focus on constitutional values and public interest. Her statements come amidst an ongoing police investigation into the embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya.
Authorities have arrested multiple individuals and are examining financial records as part of the probe. Notices have been issued to several banks, including State Bank of India (SBI), Bank of Baroda, and Canara Bank, to provide details of accounts and lockers related to the case. Approximately 70 to 80 individuals are under scrutiny, with statements being recorded in phases.
