Rahul Gandhi, Kharge write to PM Modi, seek probe into Ram temple trust donations

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking an independent investigation into the financial affairs of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

In their letter dated July 18, the Congress leaders urged the Prime Minister to order a comprehensive probe into the handling of donations received by the Trust.

"We urge you to immediately order an independent and comprehensive investigation into the financial affairs of the Trust, including the handling of all offerings including cash, gold, silver. The findings and the Trust's accounts should be made public so that every devotee knows how their offerings have been utilized," the letter said.



The two leaders also called for the Trust's accounts to be made public and said those found responsible should be held accountable "irrespective of position or influence."

The letter states that the Prime Minister had announced the formation of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Parliament following the Supreme Court's directions. It also says the Trust's members were appointed by the government.

Gandhi and Kharge said the Prime Minister should ensure "accountability and restitution" and added that "the credibility of your government and the Trust rests on how transparently and swiftly you act."

The letter has been sent against the backdrop of allegations relating to the handling of donations received by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.