Mumbai: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday launched the party’s ‘Ram Raksha’ agitation in Mumbai, alleging embezzlement of donations meant for the Ayodhya Ram Temple and accusing the BJP of misusing Hindutva for political gains. He demanded an independent and impartial investigation into the case.
Addressing supporters outside the Hanuman Temple in Dadar after reciting the Hanuman Chalisa, Hanuman Stotra, and Ram Raksha Stotra, Thackeray said, “Those looting Hindus are in power,” adding that those who misuse religion and temple funds should be held accountable. He argued that “a robber cannot investigate his own robbery” and called for a probe independent of the government.
Thackeray sought to distinguish his party’s version of Hindutva from that of the BJP, saying, “We are proud Hindus, but not fools.” He alleged that the BJP came to power in the name of Lord Ram but had betrayed the trust of devotees. He also urged Hindus to “wake up” and asserted that Lord Ram belongs to everyone, not any one political party.
The agitation follows allegations of financial irregularities in donations made to the Ayodhya Ram Temple. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government, an FIR was registered on June 25, and eight people associated with the temple’s donation collection and counting process have been arrested so far. The investigation is continuing.
The BJP hit back at Thackeray’s remarks. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said he was glad Thackeray had “finally remembered Ram” and accused him of abandoning the ideals of Hindutva in the past.
