Shimla, July 9 -- The war of words between the Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over alleged misappropriation of donations at Ram Mandir in Ayodhya intensified on Wednesday, with both parties exchanging sharp attacks. The exchange came a day after the Congress staged a symbolic protest and performed a havan ceremony in Shimla. Later, chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu termed the misappropriation of donations as "theft of faith." Responding to BJP's criticism of Congress leadership's recent visit to the Ram temple, Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) president Vinay Kumar on Wednesday rejected questions over the party's commitment to Hindu traditions. "We do not need any certificate from the BJP to prove that we are Sanatanis or Hindus. We are proud of our faith. Instead of questioning the Congress, the BJP should answer allegations regarding electoral bond donations. They should explain why there was alleged 'theft' and reveal the names of those responsible rather than targeting political opponents", he said. Hitting back, Himachal BJP chief Rajeev Bindal said repeated electoral defeats had left Congress leaders frustrated, and this was now reflected in their statements. "Rhetoric cannot divert public attention from the failures of the state government. The Congress, from top to bottom, consistently tried to block the construction of the temple for the sake of appeasement politics. Today, the same party is attempting to portray itself as a supporter of Lord Ram, which the people of the country clearly understand," he said. HTC...