Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)
Udupi, Jul 8: KPCC Campaign Committee president Vinay Kumar Sorake has called for a Supreme Court judge-led investigation into the alleged financial irregularities related to the Ram Mandir, saying the truth behind the allegations must come out.
Addressing the media in Udupi Press Club, Vinay Kumar Sorake alleged that the BJP had used the name of Lord Ram for electoral gains. "Bricks were distributed to every household for worship during elections, and people were made to take pledges in the name of Lord Ram to secure votes. The bricks collected in the name of Ram were later thrown into drains.”
Questioning the handling of donations, Sorake said, "There is no proper accounting for the money collected in the name of the Ram Mandir over the past several decades. Real estate transactions took place during the construction of the temple, and the members of the temple trust are responsible for these alleged irregularities."
He further alleged that a relative of a Karnataka trustee was given an opportunity during the temple construction. "There are allegations that gold donated to the Ram Mandir was melted in Karnataka. The temple has also been kept outside the purview of the Right to Information Act, and CCTV cameras have been removed.”
Referring to media reports, Sorake said parts of the Ram Mandir structure were reportedly facing structural issues and added that all the allegations should be thoroughly investigated.
"We do not want an SIT probe that could divert the direction of the investigation. The inquiry should be conducted only under the supervision of a Supreme Court judge, and those found guilty should be given strict punishment," he said.
Sorake also alleged that those who resigned had close links with the Prime Minister. "The Prime Minister speaks on several issues in 'Mann Ki Baat', but has remained silent on the Ram Mandir allegations. The faith and devotion of people should not be hurt. If these allegations are true, it is an insult to Lord Ram. Only a judicial investigation can establish the truth," he added.
Harish Kini, Udupi District Congress Campaign Committee president and Sukumar Y, Kaup Block Congress were present in press conference.