Yogi Adityanath Defends Ram Temple Donations Amid Opposition Criticism
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has strongly defended the Ram Temple donations amidst allegations of misappropriation from the opposition. He criticized the Samajwadi Party for their behavior in the assembly, calling it undemocratic and disrespectful. Adityanath emphasized that discussions on matters pending in court are prohibited and highlighted the importance of following legal protocols. He also addressed the formation of a Special Investigation Team to look into the allegations, asserting that no theft occurred and that the accusations are an attempt to tarnish the reputation of the temple and its associated individuals. This controversy continues to stir political tensions in the state.
| Aug 4, 2026, 16:26 IST
Yogi Adityanath Responds to Allegations
In response to allegations of misappropriation of donations for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath condemned the opposition, labeling their actions as an attack on India's faith. He stated that the behavior exhibited by the Samajwadi Party and other opposition members was not only disrespectful to the assembly but also undemocratic and shameful. According to him, the assembly operates under established rules and traditions, and as per Rule 59 of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly's operational guidelines, discussions on matters pending before any tribunal or commission are prohibited.
Assembly Conduct and Opposition's Actions
He further explained that under special circumstances, if the Speaker believes that a discussion would not hinder the investigation process, permission could be granted. The Samajwadi Party had previously assured the Business Advisory Committee that they would provide notice for the issues they wished to discuss. The matter concerning the Ayodhya Ram Temple is currently pending in court. Despite understanding the seriousness of the situation, the opposition not only disrespected the assembly but also attempted to undermine the ongoing judicial process.
Criticism of Opposition's Democratic Claims
Yogi Adityanath questioned how those whose primary goal is to create chaos could be considered democratic. He accused them of relying on disruptive tactics and disrespecting constitutional institutions. Regarding the Ayodhya case, where allegations of donation theft have surfaced, he clarified that no theft occurred; the issue was related to offerings. The Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has communicated with the state government, requesting the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct an inquiry. The trust, established by the court, is a charitable organization, and the state government cannot intervene without the trust's request or a court order.
SIT Report and Investigation Outcomes
On June 23, the SIT submitted its report, leading the trust to file an FIR on June 25. Following the FIR, eight individuals were apprehended based on evidence. The court has taken charge of the case for further proceedings. No involvement of any saints or ascetics was found in this matter. Over 1,100 individuals work on the temple premises, with only eight identified in connection with the allegations. It is surprising to see attempts to tarnish the reputation of saints, ascetics, Ayodhya, the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, and its staff. These accusations are being made by the Samajwadi Party and Congress, who have historically disrespected the Ram Janmabhoomi and Lord Ram.