RSS calls Ram Temple donation theft 'unfortunate', demands strict action

New Delhi: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Friday finally broke its silence on the alleged theft from the donation boxes at the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale released a video statement terming the incident as one that has hurt the sentiments and faith of the entire society. "The unfortunate incident of theft in the donation boxes kept at the Shri Ram Lalla temple in Ayodhya has deeply hurt the sentiments and faith of the entire society and Ram devotees. We are all extremely pained and angered by this event," Hosabale said.

He said that, at the request of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, the Uttar Pradesh government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and initiated legal proceedings based on its recommendations. "It is essential to ensure that anyone found guilty after the investigation faces severe punishment," he said.


Hosabale said the RSS expects the Trust to treat this highly condemnable incident as an extraordinary matter and take effective steps to rectify all shortcomings in temple management and operations.

"This is crucial to ensure that the faith and reverence of crores of Ram devotees in the Ayodhya temple remain unbroken and steadfast. The current state of confusion and uncertainty must end," he added.

Hosabale also expressed confidence that, through proper financial management, transparent and robust operational systems, and an atmosphere imbued with purity, sanctity and true Dharmikta, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust will continue to strengthen the faith and trust of Hindu society.