RSS condemns Ayodhya Ram Temple donation theft, demands strict punishment and operational transparency

NEW DELHI: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has strongly condemned the theft of donations from the donation boxes at the Shri Ram Lalla Temple in Ayodhya, stating that the incident has deeply wounded the faith and sentiments of the entire Hindu society and Ram devotees. In a video message shared on the organisation’s official X account, RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale expressed profound grief and anger over the development, marking the first public reaction from the RSS leadership since the matter came to light.

Emphasizing the spiritual and historical significance of the temple, Hosabale stated that the magnificent structure built on Shri Ram Janmabhoomi stands as a center of reverence, faith, and devotion, achieved through the struggles of generations and the dedication, sacrifice, and martyrdom of crores of devotees. He noted that at the earnest request of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, the Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and initiated legal proceedings based on its recommendations. The RSS leader stressed that it is essential to ensure whoever is found guilty in the investigation receives strict punishment.

The RSS urged the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust to treat this highly condemnable incident as exceptional and to take effective, serious steps to rectify all deficiencies in temple operations and arrangements. Hosabale noted that the current confusion and uncertainty must end, expecting all necessary initiatives to be taken promptly by both the temple management and the SIT. He expressed confidence that the Trust will continue to strengthen the trust of Hindu society through proper financial management, seamless operations with transparent systems, and an atmosphere imbued with purity and sanctity.

Furthermore, the RSS cautioned against attempts by anti-Hindu and anti-national forces seeking to exploit the unfortunate incident to malign Hindu Dharma and society. Appealing for calm, Hosabale urged the entire Hindu society to demonstrate the necessary patience and restraint in this difficult moment and to actively foil such conspiracies.