Saptrishi Soni : Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal has intensified his attack on the handling of the alleged theft of devotees’ offerings at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, accusing investigating agencies of attempting to shield the “real culprits” instead of conducting a transparent and impartial probe.
Addressing a public gathering during his visit to Punjab, Kejriwal questioned the pace and direction of the investigation, alleging that authorities had focused on low-level arrests while those responsible for the alleged financial irregularities continued to escape accountability. He claimed the investigation was being used to divert public attention rather than uncover the full truth behind the disappearance of donations made by devotees.
The AAP chief said the issue concerns not merely a criminal investigation but the faith of millions of devotees who contribute offerings with the belief that the funds will be used for religious and charitable purposes. He argued that any allegation involving financial irregularities at one of the country’s most revered religious sites demands complete transparency and accountability.
Kejriwal alleged that the current probe has failed to answer several critical questions regarding the handling of temple donations, the movement of funds and the responsibilities of officials overseeing financial management. He maintained that merely arresting a few individuals would not address the larger concerns unless every aspect of the alleged irregularities was independently examined.
Calling for a comprehensive investigation, Kejriwal demanded that agencies identify everyone involved, irrespective of their position or influence. He said public confidence in the investigation would be restored only when responsibility is fixed without political interference or selective action.
The remarks also carried political overtones, with the AAP leader accusing the BJP of attempting to suppress uncomfortable questions surrounding the controversy. He alleged that instead of ensuring institutional accountability, the ruling party was trying to manage the political fallout of the allegations.
The BJP has consistently rejected such accusations, maintaining that the investigation is being conducted in accordance with the law and that attempts to politicise matters connected to religious institutions are irresponsible. Party leaders have accused the AAP of exploiting sensitive issues for political gain.
The controversy has emerged as another flashpoint in the continuing political battle between the BJP and the AAP. While the BJP portrays the allegations as politically motivated, the AAP has sought to position itself as demanding greater transparency in the management of public and religious institutions.
Political observers believe the dispute is likely to resonate beyond Punjab, as both parties seek to shape the national political narrative ahead of future electoral contests. Whether the investigation produces further revelations or remains confined to the current proceedings, the debate has once again placed questions of accountability, public trust and the governance of religious institutions at the centre of political discourse.