VHP opposes Faizabad Bar's resolution against defending Ram Temple donation theft accused

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) criticised the Faizabad Bar Association's resolution barring advocates from representing those accused in the alleged Ram Janmabhoomi Temple donation embezzlement case, saying the decision violates constitutional principles and professional ethics.

The controversy erupted after the Faizabad Bar Association resolved that no advocate would appear for the accused in the alleged theft of donation money from the Ram Temple. The association also announced a fine of ₹5 lakh on any lawyer who chose to represent the accused.

VHP International President Alok Kumar said he had no sympathy for those accused of stealing temple donations but maintained that every individual is entitled to legal representation under the Constitution.

"I have no sympathy for those accused of the alleged donation theft. The investigation should be completed swiftly, the case should be heard in a fast-track court and the guilty should be punished. However, I cannot support a position that is both unethical and unlawful," Kumar said.

Referring to the Supreme Court's 2011 judgment in the A.S. Mohammed Rafi case, Kumar said the apex court had clearly ruled that resolutions by bar associations refusing to defend particular accused are illegal and contrary to the traditions of the legal profession.

He also pointed out that Article 22 of the Constitution guarantees every arrested person the right to consult and be defended by a legal practitioner of their choice. In addition, he cited the Bar Council of India Rules, which require advocates to accept briefs in courts where they ordinarily practise, except under special circumstances.

Kumar urged the Faizabad Bar Association to reconsider its decision, saying the Supreme Court had declared such resolutions "null and void" and stressed that lawyers have a professional duty to defend clients irrespective of the nature of the allegations against them.

Meanwhile, the Faizabad Bar Association has also demanded that Champat Rai, Anil Mishra and Gopal Rao, who are associated with the management of the Ram Temple but are not named in the FIR, leave Ayodhya within three days. The association warned of a citywide blockade if its demand was not met.

The alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple has become a major political issue, with multiple arrests made and the Special Investigation Team (SIT) continuing its probe into the case.