New Delhi, June 27: Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday termed the alleged theft of donations collected for the Ram temple in Ayodhya as "tragic" and "shameful," urging the government to conduct a comprehensive investigation and fix accountability.
Speaking during her visit to her Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency, Priyanka said that millions of devotees from across the country had contributed to the temple with faith and devotion, making it the responsibility of those managing the funds to ensure their safety.
"It is deeply unfortunate that people from all over the country donated in good faith. Those entrusted with collecting and managing these contributions have a responsibility to safeguard them," she said.
Calling the allegations serious, the Congress leader said the matter should not be dismissed as an isolated incident and warranted an impartial and credible inquiry.
"The government must investigate the matter thoroughly. Women, poor people, and ordinary devotees have made donations with faith and sacrifice. Their contributions must be protected. If funds have been collected, those responsible for managing them must also ensure they remain secure," she said.
Priyanka further stressed that accountability should not be limited to identifying those directly involved in the alleged theft. She said the investigation should also examine whether there were any lapses in the systems and authorities responsible for protecting the donations.
Her remarks come amid growing political attention over the alleged disappearance of funds collected for the Ram temple, with the Opposition demanding greater transparency in the handling of public donations made for one of the country's most significant religious projects.
The controversy has sparked fresh political debate, with the Congress seeking answers from the government on the safeguards in place to protect contributions made by devotees nationwide.
Emphasising the importance of public trust, Priyanka said those responsible for collecting and managing donations owed complete transparency and accountability to the people.
