AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal has demanded strict action against the “big names” allegedly involved in the Ayodhya Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case, saying the arrest of only lower-level accused would not satisfy devotees.
Speaking on the issue, Kejriwal said, “Mere arrest of the smaller names will not do anything,” and called for action against senior figures if they are found involved.
His remarks came after all eight accused named in the FIR were arrested and sent to custody till June 29. Investigators have recovered ₹79.85 lakh so far in the case.
According to reports, several of those arrested were bank employees deployed for counting cash donations received at the temple. The SIT is also examining possible links with the donation counting unit and whether the alleged theft was part of a wider network.
The case has triggered a political storm, with opposition parties alleging that influential people may be protected. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said action began after the SIT report and that those guilty would not be spared.
Kejriwal said the matter was linked not only to money but also to the faith of crores of devotees who contributed to the temple. He alleged that the probe must not stop with small names and demanded transparency in the investigation.
The controversy is expected to remain politically sensitive as the investigation continues and more financial records are examined.
