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Shimla, July 7
Political tensions over the alleged irregularities in donations made to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya intensified on Tuesday, with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu accusing the BJP of betraying the faith of millions of devotees. Sukhu, accompanied by members of his Cabinet, visited the Ram Temple in Shimla, offered prayers and participated in a devotional kirtan. Cabinet ministers Harshwardhan Chauhan, Rajesh Dharmani, Anirudh Singh and Vikramaditya Singh accompanied the Chief Minister. Himachal Pradesh Congress president Vinay Kumar and Shimla Urban MLA Harish Janartha were also present.
Speaking to the media at the temple premises, Sukhu said those responsible for allegedly misusing donations collected in the name of Lord Ram should seek the deity’s wisdom. He recalled contributing personally to the Ram Temple construction fund while serving as an MLA and said the donations reflected the devotion of millions of people across the country.
The Chief Minister said Himachal Pradesh had declared a full public holiday on the occasion of the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla, while a half-day holiday was observed in many other parts of the country. He added that his government draws inspiration from the ideals of Lord Ram and works to uphold values of truth, service and public welfare. Sukhu said Hindu culture teaches respect for all religions and asserted that those who genuinely follow Lord Ram do not use his name for political purposes. Referring to the alleged donation irregularities, he said the issue was not merely about money but about the faith of crores of devotees who had offered donations and valuables with devotion. He described any misuse of such offerings as a theft of people’s faith.
The Chief Minister said he and his Cabinet had prayed that those who engage in politics in the name of Lord Ram or are involved in alleged irregularities in temple donations should be guided towards the right path. On the ongoing Special Investigation Team probe, he said the law would take its course, but added that intention and integrity remain equally important. He also said former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had made an important contribution to the Ram Temple process and reiterated that his government respects all religions equally.
Responding to allegations made by Himachal BJP president Dr Rajeev Bindal, Sukhu said he worships Lord Ram with equal devotion and has always tried to follow the values of truth, honesty and service. He said the BJP should introspect before questioning others and claimed that his government is implementing welfare schemes inspired by the spirit of Ram Rajya, ensuring benefits reach the last person in society. He urged the BJP to respect devotees’ sentiments and reflect on its own intentions.
