Efforts being made to save main accused in Ram temple offerings theft case: Ajay Rai

Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai. File | Photo Credit: ANI Uttar PradeshCongress president Ajay Rai on Sunday (August 23, 2026) alleged that efforts were being made to "save" the main accused in the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.Also read | Content creator who reported on Ram Temple donations theft, corruption in Uttar Pradesh alleges harassmentTalking to reporters after offering prayers at Hanumangarhi temple here, he also said the Ram temple would not be allowed to become a "centre of trade".Mr. Rai also recited the Hanuman Chalisa at Hanumangarhi temple during his visit to Ayodhya.The Congress leader said he had prayed to Lord Hanuman to act against oppression and injustice."Now Hanuman Ji should raise his 'gada' and decide the fate of the 'chanda chor' [donation thieves]," he said.Targeting the BJP government over the issue of offerings at the Ram temple, Mr. Rai alleged that attempts were being made to "protect" the main accused in the matter.Questioning the selection process to appoint a chief executive officer for the Ram Temple Trust, the Congress leader demanded that Hindu religious leaders or 'Dharmacharyas' be appointed instead.Mr. Rai said the Congress traditionally begins its programmes with prayers and darshan of 'Bhagwan'.On the possibility of an alliance for the 2027 U.P. Assembly polls, he said the decision would be taken by the party's national leadership, but asserted that the BJP would be removed from power.He also targeted the government over rising prices of sugar and other essential commodities, warning of an agitation in Uttar Pradesh as well as across the country over the issue of inflation. Published - August 23, 2026 07:40 pm IST