SP Lawmaker Accuses BJP, RSS of Misusing Ram Mandir Donations

On August 2, Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Awadhesh Prasad launched a public criticism of the ruling coalition, alleging that individuals linked to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) had diverted donations and offerings intended for the Ram Mandir project in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.

Prasad made the charge during a gathering in Ayodhya, asserting that the alleged embezzlement undermines the transparency and integrity of the temple’s funding. He called for an independent audit of all contributions received for the construction of the shrine, which has become a focal point of Hindu cultural identity.

The Ram Mandir, a symbol of religious devotion and national pride, has attracted financial support from across India and the global diaspora. Allegations of mismanagement therefore resonate beyond local politics, touching on broader concerns about the stewardship of religious funds and the intersection of faith with political patronage.

The SP, the principal opposition in Uttar Pradesh, has repeatedly highlighted corruption issues. This latest accusation adds another layer to the ongoing political contestation surrounding the temple, reinforcing its significance as both a cultural landmark and a point of political debate.