Political Controversy Erupts Over New CEO Appointment of Ram Temple Trust

Lucknow, September 3 (Daily Kiran) : Political reactions have emerged following the appointment of a new CEO for the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. T.S. Singh Deo, former Deputy Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, emphasized the need for the trust’s autonomy and called for a separation from political interference. Meanwhile, Dr. Ragini Sonkar, a Samajwadi Party (S.P.) legislator from Jaunpur, criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the new CEO, Jitendra Mishra, and raised serious allegations regarding donations made to the temple.

In Ambikapur, Singh Deo remarked that the trust should operate independently, making decisions without political influence. He stated that no political party or individual should interfere in the functioning of such religious institutions. Regarding the new appointments, he noted that the names themselves are less significant than the actions of those involved. He recalled past instances where prominent figures in the trust faced allegations of misappropriating donations during their tenure.

Singh Deo questioned why the government and political figures should play a role in managing a religious institution. He asserted that decisions should be made independently and that autonomous organizations must retain the right to self-govern.

In Jaunpur, Dr. Sonkar responded to Mishra’s appointment by accusing the BJP of politicizing religion. She claimed that the party has been attempting to divert public attention from developmental issues by focusing on religious matters.

Dr. Sonkar also made serious allegations regarding the donations offered by devotees at the temple, asserting that there has been theft of items and funds contributed with devotion. She suggested that the BJP is using schemes to influence voters ahead of elections.

The S.P. legislator highlighted discussions around plans to distribute money and scooters to voters, questioning why such initiatives were not implemented in the past nine and a half years. She criticized the government’s lack of focus on issues affecting women, various social classes, and youth during that time.

Additionally, Dr. Sonkar targeted the government’s handling of public schools, alleging that they are being closed under the pretext of unseasonal rain due to fears of potential youth protests. She argued that attempting to secure votes through monetary or material distribution during elections is inappropriate for democratic politics. The legislator called on the government to prioritize development, education, and the basic needs of the public.