Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the recent theft at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, warning that similar incidents could occur in Kashi and Mathura if the ruling party fails to ensure security at religious sites.
Thackeray's sharp criticism
Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Thackeray said the theft at the Ram temple was a trailer, and Kashi and Mathura are yet to come. He alleged that the BJP government at the Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government have neglected the security of the Ram temple, which is the party's most important political project.
“The theft at the Ram temple is a trailer. Kashi and Mathura are yet to come. The BJP has made the temple a political symbol but failed to protect it,” Thackeray said.
Details of the theft
The theft occurred on the night of July 3-4, when miscreants broke into the Ram temple complex in Ayodhya and stole donation boxes and other valuables. The incident raised serious questions about security arrangements at the temple, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2024.
According to police, the thieves entered the temple by scaling a wall and broke open the donation boxes. The exact amount stolen is yet to be ascertained, but preliminary estimates suggest it could be in the range of several lakhs of rupees.
Political fallout
Thackeray's remarks have added to the political heat over the incident, with opposition parties questioning the BJP's commitment to the Ram temple. The Shiv Sena (UBT) chief also targeted Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, accusing him of failing to maintain law and order in the state.
“The BJP talks about Hindutva but cannot even secure the Ram temple. This shows their hypocrisy,” Thackeray said.
BJP's response
The BJP dismissed Thackeray's allegations, calling them a desperate attempt to remain relevant. BJP spokesperson Shrikant Sharma said the Uttar Pradesh police have already arrested the accused and recovered the stolen items.
“The theft was a minor incident, and the police have acted swiftly. Uddhav Thackeray is making baseless allegations to divert attention from his own party's internal problems,” Sharma said.
Security concerns
The incident has sparked a debate about security at religious sites across India, especially after the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple. Experts have called for enhanced security measures, including CCTV cameras and regular patrols.
According to a report by the Intelligence Bureau, there has been a rise in thefts at temples in Uttar Pradesh in recent months, with over 50 such incidents reported in the last six months.
Thackeray's warning
Thackeray warned that if the BJP fails to ensure security, similar incidents would occur in Kashi and Mathura, where the party has plans to build grand temples. He said the BJP is using temples for political gains but is not interested in their protection.
“The BJP should understand that temples are not just for votes. They need to be protected. If they cannot secure the Ram temple, how will they secure Kashi and Mathura?” Thackeray asked.
