Kejriwal Dismisses FIR as a Sham in Ram Temple Donation Row
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday alleged that the FIR filed over irregularities in the collection of donations for the Ram temple in Ayodhya is a sham and an attempt to shield "big people". Speaking to reporters, Kejriwal said the FIR was a "drama" and that the real culprits were being protected.
Background of the Donation Row
The controversy erupted after a complaint by the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust alleged that certain individuals and organizations had collected donations for the temple construction without authorization. The Uttar Pradesh Police subsequently registered an FIR against several people, including some AAP leaders, for allegedly cheating the public by collecting funds under the pretext of temple donations.
Kejriwal, however, claimed that the FIR was politically motivated. "This FIR is a sham. It is an attempt to shield big people. Why are they not taking action against those who actually collected crores?" he asked, without naming anyone.
Political Reactions and Accusations
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has been at loggerheads with the BJP over the issue. AAP leaders have accused the BJP of using the temple donation issue to target opposition parties ahead of the upcoming elections. "The BJP is scared of AAP's growing popularity and is using its power to file false cases," said a senior AAP leader.
On the other hand, the BJP has denied any political vendetta, stating that the law is taking its own course. "The FIR is based on a complaint from the temple trust. If anyone has collected money illegally, they must face the law," said a BJP spokesperson.
Impact on the Political Landscape
The row has further intensified the political battle between AAP and BJP, especially in Uttar Pradesh, which is a key state for both parties. The Ram temple is a significant issue for the BJP, and any controversy surrounding its funding could potentially damage its image. However, Kejriwal's allegations of shielding "big people" have added a new dimension to the debate.
According to sources, the temple trust has clarified that it has not authorized any third-party collection drives. The total amount collected through unauthorized drives is estimated to be in the range of several crores, though exact figures have not been revealed.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
The Uttar Pradesh Police has begun investigations into the matter. Several individuals have been summoned for questioning. Legal experts say that if proven, the charges could lead to imprisonment for cheating and fraud. However, Kejriwal remains defiant, stating that the AAP will fight the case legally and politically.
"We will expose the real culprits. The people of India know that this is a conspiracy against us," Kejriwal asserted.
