AAP Launches Signature Drive Over Alleged Ram Temple 'Dacoity'

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) officially launched a nationwide signature campaign on Sunday, July 12, 2026, to press for stringent action against those allegedly involved in the theft of donations and financial irregularities at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. National Convener Arvind Kejriwal inaugurated the drive following a 'Sundarkand' recitation at Japanese Park in Rohini, New Delhi, calling on devotees across the country to join the movement.

The campaign seeks to mobilize public support for a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding that those responsible for what the party characterizes as "dacoity" at the temple face the harshest possible penalties.

Allegations of Financial Irregularities

The AAP’s campaign centers on claims of widespread corruption, including the theft of offerings from the Ram Temple and alleged irregularities in land acquisitions related to the temple trust. Mr. Kejriwal alleged that despite a Special Investigation Team (SIT) arresting eight lower-level employees, the "masterminds" and influential figures remain protected by the current system.

"People had hoped that the Prime Minister would ensure strict action against those involved, but recent developments indicate that every effort is being made to shield the thieves and dacoits," Mr. Kejriwal stated during the event. He further alleged that financial oversight at the temple was severely compromised, claiming that internal CCTV footage had been deleted and that commissions were regularly taken during construction tenders.

Political Mobilization

The launch, which saw participation from senior leaders including Manish Sisodia and Sunita Kejriwal, is intended to serve as a public movement that transcends party lines. By invoking religious sentiments through the collective recitation of the 'Sundarkand' and 'Hanuman Chalisa,' the AAP aims to channel the frustration of devotees into a formal demand for transparency.

The party has urged supporters to carry out door-to-door outreach to collect signatures, with the ultimate goal of submitting a massive petition to the Prime Minister’s Office. The AAP leadership maintains that these financial discrepancies have "shaken the faith" of millions of followers who contributed to the construction of the temple.

Official Sources and Oversight

The protest comes amidst ongoing scrutiny of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. While the state government has maintained that a formal investigation is underway, opposition parties have expressed dissatisfaction with the current pace and scope of the probe. According to official reports, a Supreme Court-led bench is scheduled to hear pleas regarding the donation embezzlement case on Monday, July 13, 2026.

Why It Matters

This campaign places significant pressure on the ruling government to address allegations of corruption at a site of high religious and political sensitivity. For citizens and donors, the outcome of this movement could define the standards of accountability for institutions managing public and religious funds in India. Furthermore, as the legal and political discourse intensifies, the event highlights the growing friction between the opposition and the government regarding the governance of the Ram Temple.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Campaign Launch: The AAP began its nationwide signature drive on July 12, 2026, in New Delhi.

• Primary Demand: The party is calling for the "harshest punishment" for those accused of embezzling temple donations and land-related irregularities.

• Allegations: AAP leaders claim that eight junior workers were scapegoated while "big fish" remain protected.

• Next Steps: The party plans to mobilize devotees to sign letters addressed to the Prime Minister, demanding a more transparent and comprehensive investigation.

FAQ

What is the AAP's specific grievance regarding the Ram Temple?

The party alleges large-scale theft of donations, commissions taken during construction, and irregularities in land deals involving the temple trust.

What is the signature drive trying to achieve?

The campaign aims to pressure the Prime Minister to ensure a transparent, high-level investigation and to punish those responsible for financial misappropriation at the temple.

How is the government responding?

The Yogi Adityanath government has stated that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) is investigating the matter and has already made arrests, though the AAP maintains this is insufficient.

Source: The Hindu, ANI, India Today