Corruption Allegations Hit Ayodhya Ram Temple Over Missing Millions

Allegations of systemic corruption and theft have surfaced regarding the Ram temple in Ayodhya. A government report has confirmed that temple staff siphoned donations from devotees, with some estimates suggesting the stolen funds exceed 70 million rupees.

Whistleblower claims published by the media outlet Top Secret further allege financial misconduct during the temple's construction. These reports state that project costs ballooned from an initial projection of 8 billion rupees to 22 billion rupees by the time the temple opened in 2024.

In response to these findings, Rahul Gandhi and independent Member of Parliament Rajesh Ranjan staged a satirical protest at the Indian parliament in Delhi on July 31. During the demonstration, Rajesh Ranjan dressed as a priest and utilized a donation box to highlight the alleged scandal to fellow lawmakers.