Amid the ongoing investigation into the alleged theft at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday took aim at Union Home Minister Amit Shah, claiming that despite referring to the temple more than 42 times in speeches and interviews, Shah has not visited the shrine since its consecration in 2024.
In a post on X, Kejriwal wrote, “It has been two-and-a-half years since the consecration of the Shri Ram Temple – a total of 891 days. During this entire period, Home Minister Amit Shah has not visited the Ram Temple even once.”
Kejriwal said he had reviewed public records and media reports, claiming that Amit Shah had referred to the Ram Temple more than 42 times in his speeches and interviews.
“He has time to seek votes in the name of Lord Ram, but not enough time to visit the temple,” Kejriwal said.
Addressing Amit Shah directly, Kejriwal questioned why the Union Home Minister had not visited the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and asked whether he considered Lord Ram to be God.
“My questions to Amit Shah are: Why haven’t you visited the Ram Temple? Do you not wish to visit? Do you not seek Lord Ram’s blessings? Do you not regard Lord Ram as God?” he asked.
Kejriwal also urged Shah to visit the temple, saying devotees would expect leaders associated with the Ram Temple movement to pay their respects and seek blessings at the shrine.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged that the governments at the Centre and in Uttar Pradesh would not ensure action against those accused in the Ram Temple donation theft case.
“If you want those accused of stealing temple donations to be punished, then the government must change. The current Central government and the present Uttar Pradesh government cannot ensure justice in this case,” Kejriwal said.
Kejriwal claimed that those seeking action in the alleged temple donation theft case should vote for a change in government.
He also accused the BJP of using religious sentiments for political advantage.
“Those who invoke Lord Ram’s name should also show their respect for him. Lord Ram has given them everything. With his blessings, they formed governments in 21 states and at the Centre. They should at least visit the temple and offer their gratitude,” Kejriwal said.
He further alleged that the BJP had used Sanatan primarily as a means to gain political power and financial benefits, adding that more details surrounding the controversy would come to light.