India, Aug. 29 -- Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday accused the Opposition of allegedly pursuing a "well-planned strategy" to defame Sanatan Dharma by making baseless corruption allegations over projects being undertaken for next year's Kumbh Mela in Nashik.

"Similar attempts were made to defame Sanatan Dharma after the theft incident at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Some had even alleged that donations worth Rs.1,800 crore were stolen from the temple," Fadnavis said.

"These elements are making baseless allegations to tarnish the image of the Hindu religion. But it will not be easy for them to mislead people, as they know the reality," he added.

Fadnavis was speaking to reporters after inaugurating the three-day Kumbh Bhakti Fest...