Does politicians intentionally raise religious issues just before elections?

Obviously. Now Ram Mandir case is going on which is raised to another level to complete it so that it can feed on people sentiment.

Definitely, they intentionally raise religious issues before elections.

Yes they do.  Politicians are like chameleon.  They can go ahead claiming to be janeudhari Hindu.  Actually they don't mind hurting religious sentiments and mocking a religion for political brownies.  Minority appeasement is the smartest card they play for vote bank.  The so called secular parties and leaders are actually the sickular ones.