No one above Lord Ram: VHP chief seeks fast-track probe in Ram Temple donation row
Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) chief Alok Kumar on Thursday called for the registration of an FIR and a fast-track investigation into the controversy surrounding alleged
Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) chief Alok Kumar on Thursday called for the registration of an FIR and a fast-track investigation into the controversy surrounding alleged misappropriation of donations received at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, saying that anyone found guilty must face punishment. Asserting that "no one is above Lord Ram", Kumar said the Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government had already submitted its report, and the matter had reached the stage where a criminal case should be formally registered. Read Full Story "The SIT has submitted its report to the Uttar Pradesh government. This is the appropriate stage for filing an FIR.
The investigation should be conducted on a fast-track basis and completed within four to five months. Those found guilty must be punished without delay," he told India Today TV. The Uttar Pradesh government had on June 13 constituted the SIT at the request of the temple trust following allegations of misappropriation of donations received at the Ram Temple. The controversy gained political traction after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on June 7 cited reports alleging that crores of rupees from donations offered at the temple were missing and urged courts to take cognisance of the matter. In response, Kumar accused the Samajwadi Party and the Congress of attempting to derive political mileage from the controversy ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls.
"The world is watching. The SP government was in power when firing took place during the Ram Mandir movement," he said. "No one is above Lord Ram; no one should be protected or spared. Due process and institutional mechanisms will ensure justice," he added. The VHP chief also noted that Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra general secretary Champat Rai had himself initiated the process by bringing the matter to the attention of the SIT. "The investigation should now proceed according to law," he said. Asked about demands for judicial intervention, Kumar said there was no need for court involvement at the current stage as the state machinery was already examining the allegations.
"The institutional process is underway and should be allowed to reach its logical conclusion," he added. Expressing confidence in the probe, Kumar said the VHP expects the investigation to be completed within four to five months. He maintained that the ongoing investigation would establish the facts and ensure accountability, irrespective of the individuals involved. Ends
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