Sanatan Swabhiman Yatra: Digvijaya Singh’s Dussehra March to Ayodhya Triggers Political Storm

Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Digvijaya Singh has announced the 'Sanatan Swabhiman Yatra', a foot march from Ujjain to Ayodhya set to begin on Dussehra, October 20, amid an escalating row over alleged financial irregularities at the Ram Temple.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swiftly countered the announcement, accusing the opposition party of indulging in "appeasement politics" and utilizing the temple controversy for electoral gains.

Allegations of Funds Misuse and Call for Transparency

The Congress leader levelled serious allegations against the administration regarding the alleged misuse of temple offerings and accused the government of shielding Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust official Champat Rai. Pointing out that the Prime Minister-constituted trust had faced severe irregularities, Singh maintained that contributions made by devotees must be handled with total transparency.

Singh said the proposed march was rooted in Sanatan tradition, religious faith, and respect for devotees, adding that the issues surrounding temple donations would be brought before the public. Recalling his political history, Singh noted that despite his ideological opposition to the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), he had participated in the 'Ram Shila Pujan' campaign during 1988–89.

March from 'Shivdham' to 'Ramdham'

Describing the journey as a movement from 'Shivdham' (Ujjain) to 'Ramdham' (Ayodhya), Singh said the significance of Dussehra symbolising the victory of righteousness over unrighteousness inspired the march.

"The objective of the march is not to oppose any political party or individual, but to hold a mirror to those allegedly involved in the misuse of devotees' faith and the funds offered at the temple," Singh stated.

BJP Hits Back, Questions Rahul Gandhi's Absence

The announcement triggered sharp reactions from BJP leaders, who questioned Singh's motives and pointed to Rahul Gandhi's absence from the Ayodhya shrine.

Uttar Pradesh Minister Rakesh Sachan defended the state government's response, highlighting that swift action had already been taken following the reports.

"He (Digvijaya Singh) never even went there to offer prayers," Sachan said. "Those involved in the theft of donations have already faced action after the Chief Minister constituted a full-fledged inquiry committee. A CEO has also been appointed there in a new arrangement. CM Yogi has consistently been concerned that no such incident should take place."

Echoing similar sentiments, Bihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi dismissed the yatra as an opportunistic political ploy.

"Digvijaya Singh should first ask Rahul Gandhi why his party's senior leader has not visited the Ram Temple in Ayodhya to pay obeisance even once. Don't these people feel ashamed?" Saraogi remarked, adding that the Congress was turning to Lord Ram solely due to upcoming Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh.

JD(U) National General Secretary Shyam Rajak also hit out at the Congress leader's framing of the march, stating, "Which Sanatan is Digvijaya Singh talking about? He should first put his own house in order and take care of his own family."