Kathmandu— Congress Member of Parliament KC Venugopal on Monday requested a discussion in the Lok Sabha regarding alleged embezzlement of donations intended for the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, and urged the central government to establish an independent inquiry overseen by a Supreme Court judge. The demand comes after reports surfaced alleging a systematic siphoning off of funds and valuables donated by citizens to the temple trust, prompting opposition parties to seek answers from the ruling government. Venugopal submitted an adjournment motion citing what he described as an “organized racket” operating within the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, questioning the scope of the current investigation.

Allegations of Financial Irregularities

KC Venugopal formally requested a parliamentary discussion and independent probe into what he claims is widespread financial fraud, theft, and embezzlement related to public donations made to the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. He alleges that recent reports point to a highly organized scheme within the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust responsible for diverting cash and jewelry donated by millions of people.

Venugopal expressed concern that the ongoing Special Investigating Team (SIT) probe is insufficient, characterizing it as an attempt to shield those allegedly behind the embezzlement while focusing solely on lower-level outsourced staff.

Opposition Calls for Government Response

The Congress party and the broader INDIA bloc are attempting to pressure the central government over this issue, staging protests both inside and outside of Parliament. They seek a comprehensive discussion about the alleged theft and demand accountability.

Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should address the allegations in Parliament, emphasizing his direct involvement in establishing and overseeing the Ram Mandir trust and its activities. He pointed out that the Prime Minister inaugurated the temple, initiated worship services, hoisted the flag, and selected the trust members, therefore he is best positioned to provide answers.

The opposition continues to press for a thorough investigation and parliamentary debate on the matter, while the government has yet to publicly respond to the specific demands for an independent inquiry under Supreme Court supervision.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.