New Delhi: A serious investigation is underway regarding the theft of offerings at the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya. So far, eight individuals, including Tinnu Yadav, have been arrested in connection with the case. Additionally, Champat Rai, who held a key position in the Ram Mandir Trust, has resigned from his post.
A flurry of accusations and counter-accusations between the government and the opposition has ensued over this matter. Former MP Vinay Katiyar, who played a pivotal role in the Ram Mandir movement, made a startling statement regarding the theft. He remarked that it would be premature to conclude the current developments.
Katiyar added that he remains in constant contact with PM Narendra Modi and is confident that the situation will soon be resolved. He also noted that the names of Champat Rai and Gopal Rao have surfaced in connection with the case, and based on the investigation, Champat Rai might even face imprisonment.
What did Vinay Katiyar say about the temple theft controversy?
Former MP Vinay Katiyar made a significant statement regarding the theft of Ram Mandir offerings. He said, “What can I say about Champat-ji? When I came here… three days later, I asked him, ‘Champat-ji, where have you ended up? Stay at Karsevakpuram.’ I told him that if there was work to be done, he should come to my house, but he didn’t fully grasp the point. What could I do? I told him it seemed his luck wasn’t exactly favourable”
Massive financial irregularities
Former MP Vinay Katiyar did not stop there; he remarked that when the full details are revealed, everyone will be left dumbfounded. Referring to the demolition of the Babri Masjid, he recalled how the then-Chief Minister Kalyan Singh had asked him if Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao was his friend.
He was also asked to speak to him at the time. He mentioned that Narasimha Rao was constantly seeking updates on the situation over the phone. After the structure collapsed, Rao had remarked that, “Now, [forces] will have to be sent.” Speaking on the issue of Ram Mandir donations and the alleged embezzlement, Vinay Katiyar stated that a significant misappropriation of funds has occurred, and an investigation into the matter is currently underway.
No objection to action being taken
Vinay Katiyar clarified that the accused, Avinash, was not part of that group. He stated that he has no objection to action being taken against him. He further added that since an SIT does not complete an investigation in a single day, the process might take an additional two or three days.
