Lucknow: A recent theft involving the donation box (hundi) at the Ram temple in Ayodhya has reportedly caused concern within the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which had played a major role in the long campaign that preceded the temple’s construction.
The report says the incident has sparked questions about the organisation’s image of discipline and integrity. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is said to be upset and has insisted that those involved must be arrested even if they are part of powerful circles.
According to the report, Bhagwat has also spoken to Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the matter. Meanwhile, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Uttar Pradesh government has already arrested eight people in connection with the case.
Sampath Rai, who served as general secretary of the Ram Janmabhoomi trust and is associated with the RSS, has resigned, citing moral responsibility. He had earlier been appointed to oversee temple construction, and the report adds that he may be arrested soon.
The report also notes that, unlike many prominent temple trusts where the state’s chief minister holds a key role, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was not given a position in the Ayodhya trust. It had been said this was because he was not from the RSS, but the current case has brought renewed scrutiny as an RSS-linked functionary is now at the centre of the controversy.
