‘Temple comes before government’: Uddhav Thackeray launches ‘Ram Raksha Movement’ over Ram Temple fund misuse allegations

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has announced the launch of the ‘Ram Raksha Movement’ across Maharashtra, alleging irregularities in the handling of Ram Temple donations and calling for strict action against those responsible if the allegations are proven.

The statewide campaign is set to begin on July 5, with Thackeray unveiling the initiative during a press conference. As part of the launch, he said a collective recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa will be held at a temple in Dadar, Mumbai, at 4 PM on Sunday. Similar programmes and protests are also expected to take place at Ram and Hanuman temples across the state.

Inviting supporters to join the campaign, Thackeray appealed to those who believe in Hindutva and the ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray to participate in the movement.

During the press conference, the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader alleged that reports had emerged suggesting attempts to use issues linked to the Ram Temple for political purposes. He claimed there were allegations that temple funds had been misused and asserted that anyone found guilty of misappropriating donations should face legal consequences.

Thackeray also alleged that money linked to the temple had been used in efforts to influence elected representatives and destabilise political parties, though he did not present evidence publicly during the announcement. The allegations have not been independently verified, and there has been no official response from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding these specific claims.

Referring to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Thackeray said Hindus should not tolerate any wrongdoing associated with places of worship. He argued that those accused of exploiting religious institutions for personal or political gain should be held accountable.

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Speaking about the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Thackeray recalled the role played by Shiv Sena workers and various Hindu organisations during the temple movement. He said it was unfortunate that the temple, which symbolised the faith of millions, was now becoming the subject of controversy due to allegations surrounding financial management.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) chief also said he would be willing to visit the Ayodhya Ram Temple alongside Union Home Minister Amit Shah and reiterated that his party would support any future Rath Yatra organised for the cause.

Reaffirming his party’s ideological position, Thackeray recalled his earlier statement made before becoming Chief Minister of Maharashtra, saying, “First the temple, then the government.” He added that for his party, the temple remains more important than political power and insisted that corruption, if established, should not be tolerated under any circumstances.

The announcement comes amid an increasingly charged political atmosphere in Maharashtra, with religious and political issues continuing to dominate public discourse ahead of future electoral battles.