Lucknow: Deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav over the Ram Temple donation controversy, accusing the opposition of indulging in appeasement and vote-bank politics.Responding to questions about the donation theft allegations, Pathak said the state govt was committed to ensuring strict action against anyone found guilty. He pointed out that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was already probing the matter and that no accused would be spared.“The govt is committed to ensuring that every guilty person is punished. An SIT inquiry is underway, and action will be taken strictly in accordance with the law,” Pathak said.The deputy chief minister also praised the action taken by the Ram Mandir Trust, saying it acted firmly after irregularities came to light. He reiterated the BJP govt’s commitment to promoting Sanatan culture and safeguarding public faith.Pathak further accused the SP and the Congress of selectively raising issues linked to the Ram Mandir while remaining silent on alleged irregularities involving Muslim institutions. “Akhilesh Yadav should also speak about donations made to the Babri Masjid and the misconduct taking place in some madrasas. But they will never do so because it will upset their vote bank,” he said.Pathak alleged that questions were repeatedly being raised over Ram Temple donations, while opposition parties avoided discussing alleged wrongdoing in mosques and madrasas. “Many madrasas have become centres of misconduct, yet the SP and the Congress never speak about it because of appeasement politics,” he claimed.Pathak said an FIR was already lodged by the Ram Mandir Trust and that authorities were taking the necessary legal action. “Maintaining law and order remains the govt’s top priority. The investigation is proceeding, and strict action will be taken against those found responsible,” he said.
