'Changing Principles for Votes': Akhilesh Yadav Slams BJP Following Meet with Shankaracharya
In a significant political development, Samajwadi Party National President Akhilesh Yadav met with Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati in Lucknow on Thursday morning. The meeting, which took place amidst the backdrop of the Shankaracharya’s Govisthi Yatra, has intensified the ongoing discourse surrounding the alleged theft of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
Targeting the BJP’s 'Shifting' Principles
Emerging from the meeting, the SP chief did not mince words when targeting the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "The people in the current government keep changing their ideas and principles for their own selfish interests," Yadav told reporters. He emphasized that the BJP adjusts its ideological stance purely to secure votes, asserting that in the modern era, such political shifts are well-documented and visible to the public.
Serious Allegations Over Ram Temple Donations
Addressing the controversy surrounding the alleged misappropriation of Ram Temple donations, Akhilesh Yadav described the incident as a "grave sin" that has deeply concerned followers of Sanatan Dharma globally. The former UP Chief Minister questioned the accountability within the temple trust, asking, "Action should be taken against the small fry, but what about those who delegated the responsibility?" He further claimed that if the Call Detail Records (CDRs) of key figures involved in the temple management were investigated, it would trigger a political earthquake within the BJP ranks.
Questioning the SIT and Internal Accountability
Yadav also raised concerns regarding the Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted to probe the donation theft. He alleged that a member of the SIT is currently facing legal proceedings for fraud (420), questioning the impartiality of the investigation. Describing the situation as a "fight between Delhi and Lucknow," he suggested that a complete structural overhaul of the management is necessary rather than superficial changes. While noting that the Chief Minister’s visit to Ayodhya is a positive step, he criticized the administration for failing to apprehend the culprits behind the theft so far.
Shankaracharya’s Sharp Critique
Echoing the skepticism, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati also aimed at the state government. Questioning the delay in justice, the Shankaracharya remarked, "If a scam has occurred, what action is the Chief Minister actually taking?" He further noted that current political figures might face stronger accountability once there is a change in government, adding fuel to the already charged political climate in Uttar Pradesh.
