VHP President Alok Kumar (File photo)
Has the embezzlement of donations row damaged Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust‘s credibility, shaken devotees’ faith?It’s a moral blemish that every Hindu feels. This is a temple with a 500-year history of struggle and Hindu sacrifices. When it was to be built, 12.5 crore families donated money. The feeling that their money has been stolen is very unfortunate. Yes, it has hurt. It has hurt the trust’s credibility, not VHP. On the day SC’s verdict came, VHP categorically stated: “Our job is over”. There has to be ‘prayaschit’. Priority should be a probe, identification of guilty, trial and conviction. That would restore confidence.Can VHP disown moral responsibility when the temple trust is led by people rooted in Ram Janmabhoomi movement?Suppose a govt servant swindles money from a club he is a member of, would you say whole govt is responsible and should resign? When Champat (Rai) ji is trust general secretary, we can’t be blamed for his wrongdoings.Does ‘no guilty should be spared’ include Champat Rai, Anil Mishra, others?No guilty should be spared. I am not saying whether anyone is guilty or not. That is for investigators to find out.Should they step aside from VHP-linked duties?They have resigned as it was being said if they continue, they may influence witnesses or tamper with evidence. This (resignation) should be appreciated. Let police probe and court decide.Your response to Congress’s charge of “big fish” being shielded and seeking SC-monitored probe?On what basis are they saying we are protecting the big fish? FIR names eight persons in the SIT report and others. Request is for a comprehensive probe. Congress’s 2027 UP poll campaign should have some honesty. There is no protection for anybody.Are Congress-SP seeking accountability or weaponising Hindu sentiment?It’s strange coming from Congress and SP. Akhilesh says they will turn Ayodhya into Siyaram Dham. But as CM, why didn’t he visit Ayodhya, or give a single scheme for its development? It was a dusty, forgotten town. Why this sudden love for Ram? Congress also gave affidavit in SC saying Ram is a mythological figure.
