'Not offered with genuine devotion': UP assembly speaker on Ram temple stolen donations
UP assembly speaker Satish Mahana faced backlash for suggesting that those complaining about stolen Ram temple donations may have lacked genuine devotion. He later clarified that he supports legal action against thieves but defended the integrity of the temple movement.
Why it matters
The comments highlight the intersection of religious sentiment, political accountability, and public discourse surrounding high-profile infrastructure projects in India.
LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh assembly speaker Satish Mahana stirred a row on Wednesday with his remarks on the alleged Ram temple donation theft case, saying those who believed their donations had been stolen "may not have offered it with genuine devotion"."Those who think their donation was stolen may not have offered it with genuine devotion, so perhaps their money was stolen. Our money is invested in the temple, and the current form of the temple is proof of this," Mahana said.Clarifying his remarks later, Mahana told reporters on Wednesday, "Has anyone ever asked for donated money back? Think of anything donated in society, has anyone ever asked for it to be returned? If someone asks, they are ready to return the money.
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