Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday seeking an independent investigation into alleged embezzlement of donations [1].
The request follows growing concerns over the financial management of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya. Because the temple is a focal point of national religious and political identity, allegations of financial misconduct threaten to undermine public trust in the project's administration.
Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and Kharge, the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, both represent the Congress party. In their joint letter addressed to the Prime Minister’s Office in New Delhi, the leaders said that devotees who contributed to the temple deserve full accountability [2].
Gandhi criticized the Prime Minister's lack of public comment on the matter, saying, "Your silence is unacceptable" [3]. He said that "Devotees feel betrayed" by the alleged misuse of funds [4].
Kharge emphasized the government's responsibility to maintain transparency regarding the trust's finances. In the letter, he said, "Your duty to ensure accountability" [5].
This demand for a federal probe comes after the Uttar Pradesh government took initial steps to address the controversy. State authorities constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the donation allegations on June 13, 2026 [6]. However, the Congress leaders are pushing for an independent inquiry to ensure the process remains impartial and comprehensive.
The controversy centers on whether donations intended for the construction and maintenance of the Ayodhya temple were diverted or embezzled. The leaders said that a high-level investigation is the only way to provide the necessary clarity to the public [2].
“"Your silence is unacceptable"”
The demand for an independent probe elevates a regional financial investigation into a national political confrontation. By framing the issue as a betrayal of devotees, the opposition is attempting to challenge the government on a highly sensitive cultural and religious front, shifting the narrative from spiritual achievement to administrative accountability.
