New Delhi, August 19: Mahant Raju Das of Hanumangarhi in Ayodhya has requested permission to perform a ritual for Lord Shiva at the Gyanvapi complex on the occasion of Nag Panchami. He expressed that if individuals who consume beef can pray five times a day, then ascetics should at least be allowed to worship for one day. He welcomed the clean chit given to former officials of the Ram Mandir Trust, Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, regarding financial irregularities, calling it a slap on the face of those who have been undermining faith.
Speaking about his request for the ritual, Mahant Raju Das stated, “We went to seek blessings from Lord Bholenath on Nag Panchami. It is unfortunate that while worship is happening, someone consuming beef can sit and pray. This can only happen in India. We urge the central and Uttar Pradesh governments to allow us, the ascetics, to perform the water offering to Lord Shiva at least on Monday.”
He emphasized, “Why play with our faith? Worship is happening there. Our demand is that the Shivling, which was found and has been kept in a state of disrepair, should be offered water at least on Monday.”
Regarding the clean chit for Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, Mahant Raju Das remarked, “This is a slap on the face of those who have been playing with faith in the name of the Ram Temple. They have left no stone unturned in undermining the sentiments of the Sanatan community.”
He further noted the attempts to tarnish the reputation of the Ram Temple due to alleged financial irregularities involving some employees, stating, “You must have seen how there was a conspiracy to defame the Ram Temple, which was evident in the Parliament premises.”
Uttar Pradesh Minister O.P. Rajbhar commented, “Only Anil Mishra and Champat Rai have been given a clean chit, but FIRs have been filed against six others who are currently in jail.”
Congress state president Ajay Rai criticized the clean chit, alleging that the government is protecting those involved in the theft of donations.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.