Punjab Newsline | Shimla
The alleged controversy over donations made to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has sparked fresh political reactions in Himachal Pradesh.
Amid the ongoing debate, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu led a foot march with his cabinet colleagues and Congress MLAs to the historic Ram Temple in Shimla, where they offered prayers, performed a havan, and participated in religious rituals. Congress workers also raised slogans against the BJP during the visit.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said Lord Ram is a symbol of faith for millions of people and that true devotion lies in following His ideals rather than using His name for political gain. He added that genuine devotees do not politicise religion and prayed that those accused of hurting people's faith receive wisdom.
Sukhu also claimed that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had played an important role in the Ram Temple movement, saying the Congress has always respected religious sentiments while accusing the BJP of politicising faith.
After reaching the temple, the Chief Minister, ministers and legislators took part in bhajan-kirtan, performed the ceremonial abhishek of Lord Ram's idol, circumambulated the temple, and offered prayers for the peace and prosperity of Himachal Pradesh.
Referring to the alleged donation controversy, Sukhu said that if the allegations of irregularities in temple offerings are found to be true, the issue is not merely about money but about the faith of millions of devotees.
He said he had personally contributed to the Ram Temple construction fund during his tenure as an MLA and recalled that the Himachal Pradesh government had declared a public holiday on the day of the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol.
Meanwhile, Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh also entered the debate through a post on his official social media account. Beginning with "Jai Shri Ram," he shared a strongly worded message alleging that those who exploited Lord Ram's name for political power and allegedly looted the temple still remain free. His post is expected to intensify the political exchanges over the issue in the state.
