Ayodhya Funds Row: BK Hariprasad Demands Judicial Probe and Amit Shah's Resignation

A significant controversy has emerged regarding the Ayodhya funds row, prompting sharp demands for accountability from opposition leaders. BK Hariprasad, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President, has publicly called for a comprehensive judicial inquiry led by a sitting judge of the Supreme Court to investigate allegations of misappropriation involving these funds.

During a recent press briefing in Mangaluru, Hariprasad expressed grave concerns over reports indicating that a substantial sum—reportedly reaching nearly Rs 200 crore—may have been siphoned off or misused. He stated that the current allegations represent a profound betrayal of public trust, suggesting that the sanctity of religious donations has been compromised for financial gain.

Demands for Accountability and Transparency

The call for an independent judicial probe into the Ayodhya funds row stems from a lack of confidence in internal investigative mechanisms. Hariprasad explicitly stated that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) would be inadequate to address the gravity of the situation. He emphasized that only a transparent investigation overseen by a high-ranking member of the judiciary could uncover the truth behind the reported financial irregularities.

The political repercussions of these allegations have been swift, with the opposition targeting the top echelons of the ruling party. Hariprasad demanded that Union Home Minister Amit Shah take moral responsibility for the controversy and resign from his position. He argued that the Union Home Minister should be held accountable for the administrative oversight surrounding the management of these significant donations.

Highlighting the historical and emotional weight associated with the location, the KPCC leader noted that over 1,000 lives were lost in connection with the broader issues surrounding the site. He described the alleged financial misconduct as deeply unfortunate, asserting that exploiting a site of such immense religious and historical significance for economic activities is entirely unacceptable.

The demand for the resignation of Amit Shah and the push for a Supreme Court-monitored investigation signify an intensifying political standoff. As calls for transparency grow louder, the focus remains firmly on how the authorities will respond to these serious allegations of corruption linked to the Ayodhya funds row. The opposition's stance highlights a growing demand for rigorous financial oversight in matters involving large-scale public and religious donations, particularly those involving national prominence.