The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) ordered an inquiry into allegations of misappropriation of donations at Badrinath Dham after claims surfaced on social media.
The move comes as temple funds face heightened scrutiny following the Ayodhya Ram Mandir controversy.
BKTC President Hemant Dwivedi confirmed that the committee formed an inquiry panel to establish facts and sought explanations from employees involved in counting donations. He emphasised that the matter touches the faith of millions and assured strict action if allegations prove true.
The allegations originated from Bhairav Sena, a Dehradun-based outfit, which accused a temple employee of embezzling offerings. BKTC officials noted that no evidence accompanied the claims but still ordered a probe. Dwivedi rejected social media claims that the accused employee served as his personal secretary, clarifying that the individual is a regular government employee.
BKTC CEO Sohan Singh Rangad said the inquiry committee will examine CCTV footage, available evidence, and statements before submitting its report. He confirmed that footage from five cameras inside the donation counting room has been reviewed, but no conclusive findings have emerged.
Rangad assured that any irregularities will trigger legal and departmental action under the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee Act, 1939. He appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified claims until the investigation concludes.
The probe follows the Ayodhya Ram Mandir donation theft case, which led to arrests and resignations within the temple trust. The controversy has intensified calls for transparency in temple fund management across India.
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