Fraudsters exploit enthusiasm for Ram Lalla consecration ceremony in Ayodhya: VHP alerts devotees

As the fervour builds for the grand consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has sounded an alarm about a network of fraudsters orchestrating a deceptive donation drive in the name of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, the overseeing body of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

Vinod Bansal, the spokesperson of VHP, took to X to caution Ram devotees against falling victim to the fraudulent activities. He specifically pointed out a misleading social media page titled ‘Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Chhetra Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh,’ designed to dupe devotees. This illegitimate page is falsely soliciting donations through an attached QR code under the guise of supporting the Ram Temple construction.

Expressing concern, Bansal reported the matter to the Home Ministry and police chiefs in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, stating, “We have sent the formal complaint to the UP DGP and IG Range Lucknow to take immediate steps in the matter of faith.”

In response, Ayodhya Police informed that the Inspector in charge of the cyber station has been directed to investigate the case and take necessary action.

A VHP member from Ayodhya took initiative by engaging with the alleged fraudster over the phone. The fraudster, falsely seeking donations for the Ram Temple, assured contributors that their names and numbers would be recorded, and they would be invited to Ayodhya upon the temple’s completion. In a deceptive narrative, the fraudster claimed a struggle between the Muslim and Hindu communities, alleging that the Muslim community was fundraising for their temple due to hindrances from the Hindu community.

Simultaneously, VHP released a video message, disclosing their awareness of individuals deceiving devotees in the name of the Ram Mandir. Vinod Bansal emphasised that the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Nyas had not authorised anyone to collect funds. He further stated, “I have written to the Home Ministry, Uttar Pradesh DGP, and Delhi’s Commissioner of Police, seeking strict action so that people do not fall prey to such frauds. People need to be careful too. This is an occasion for joy, we are sending out invitations. We will not accept any donation.”