New Delhi, August 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Congress president and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday demanded a discussion in Parliament over allegations relating to the handling of donations and offerings received by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi should respond to the issue.
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Kharge said the matter involved the faith of millions of devotees and warranted a full-fledged debate in Parliament.
He alleged that serious questions had arisen over the management of cash donations, valuable offerings and land transactions associated with the Ayodhya Ram Temple.
Kharge pointed out that the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was constituted by the Central Government, with its formation announced by the Prime Minister in Parliament. He also noted that over 70 acres of land had been transferred to the Trust and that Prime Minister Modi had participated in key events, including the bhoomi pujan and Pran Pratishtha ceremonies.
“Under these circumstances, the Prime Minister cannot evade accountability,” Kharge said, while questioning why agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Income Tax Department had not initiated action.
He further alleged that those responsible for any wrongdoing “in the name of Lord Shri Ram” should apologise to the nation.
Kharge’s remarks triggered protests from members of the Treasury Benches, leading to interruptions in the proceedings.
Later, speaking to reporters in the Parliament complex, the Congress president said the Opposition had formally requested Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to allow discussions on the Ram Temple donation issue as well as alleged police excesses against students.
He said the Opposition was ready for a debate and alleged that the government was unwilling to allow a discussion on the matter.
Targeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Kharge also questioned his absence from the House, alleging that Parliament would function more smoothly if both the Prime Minister and the Home Minister addressed members on the issues raised by the Opposition.
The demand is expected to add to the political confrontation between the Opposition and the government during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.
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