Ayodhya: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday termed the FIR registered in the Ram Temple donation controversy as an “eyewash” and alleged that influential individuals involved in the case were being protected.
Speaking during his visit to Ayodhya, Kejriwal questioned the manner in which the investigation was being conducted and claimed that the action taken so far appeared aimed at shielding the “real culprits”. He alleged that only lower-level individuals were being targeted while bigger players remained untouched.
The AAP chief also raised questions over the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe, claiming that the SIT was constituted before the registration of an FIR. According to Kejriwal, this raised concerns about the transparency and credibility of the investigation. He described the probe as a “sham” and alleged that it had been initiated to protect powerful people rather than uncover the truth.
Kejriwal further said that reports of alleged irregularities involving cash, jewellery and other valuables donated by devotees had deeply hurt the sentiments of millions of people across the country. He asserted that those responsible for any wrongdoing in the matter should face strict punishment, irrespective of their position or influence.
The remarks come days after Uttar Pradesh Police registered an FIR against eight individuals based on a preliminary report submitted by an SIT probing alleged irregularities in donations and offerings made at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The investigation is currently underway, and authorities have said that strict action will be taken against those found guilty.
The issue has triggered a political controversy, with opposition parties demanding a transparent investigation, while the ruling BJP and the temple authorities have maintained that due process is being followed and that the probe is being conducted fairly.
