The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) on Monday called for an immediate investigation into the alleged embezzlement of offerings at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, urging the government to take strict action against those responsible while renewing its demand that temples be managed solely by devotees.In a statement, the organisation described the alleged misuse of temple funds as a ‘grave sin’ and said the matter should be investigated without delay. “Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is not merely a place of worship but a symbol of the centuries-long sacrifices, prolonged struggle, and unwavering faith of crores of Hindus across the world,” the HJS said in its release, according to PTI.The organisation added that the government must “swiftly investigate the matter to bring the truth before the people and ensure the strictest action.”Using the controversy to reiterate its long-standing position on temple administration, the HJS opposed any move to place religious institutions under government control.”How can government officials who are themselves corrupt be expected to prevent corruption in temple committees? Therefore, there should be no interference by a secular government in religious institutions,” said Ramesh Shinde, the samiti’s national spokesperson. Shinde argued that several temples across the country had witnessed increased corruption after coming under state administration.He said temple management should instead be entrusted to genuine devotees who regard temple management as an act of selfless service to the deity.The HJS maintained that religious institutions should remain independent of government control and insisted that devotees were best placed to safeguard the sanctity and administration of temples.The organisation’s statement comes amid allegations of financial irregularities involving offerings at the Ayodhya Ram Temple.
