India, July 19 -- Donation, property and management disputes have long troubled India's major religious institutions.

The controversy over the alleged theft of donations at the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya has triggered a major political storm. Such a serious allegation is unprecedented at the temple, especially since its management has been overseen with government support by individuals associated with the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Legal action has been initiated against some employees accused in the case, but political and social organisations are demanding accountability from those responsible for the temple's administration, much as they do in cases involving corruption by political leaders...