The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has ordered an internal inquiry into allegations of financial irregularities involving donations at Badrinath Dham, following claims that surfaced on social media. The development comes amid a wider debate over alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
BKTC President Hemant Dwivedi said the committee had taken the allegations seriously and initiated the process of constituting an inquiry committee to examine the matter. He added that explanations had also been sought from the employees concerned.
The move follows allegations levelled by an organisation called the Bhairav Sena, which claimed there had been financial irregularities in the handling of offerings at Badrinath Dham. The group also called for an impartial investigation into an alleged case of financial misappropriation involving an employee linked to the Temple Committee Chairman.
Responding to the claims, Dwivedi dismissed reports circulating on social media that identified the employee as his "personal secretary". "The person being referred to is not my personal secretary. He is a regular government employee of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee and has previously served as a personal assistant to three former Chairmen." He assured that the inquiry would be conducted fairly and that action would be taken if any wrongdoing was established. "Once the investigation is completed, if any employee is found guilty, strict and effective action will be taken in accordance with the rules."
Meanwhile, BKTC Chief Executive Officer Sohan Singh Rangad said the committee had already begun examining available evidence after the allegations emerged online. As part of the preliminary review, CCTV footage from the Badrinath Temple premises was scrutinised. "The available footage does not have the required clarity. However, given the seriousness and sensitivity of the issue, the Chairman has been apprised of the entire matter."
Rangad said explanations had been sought from the employees concerned on the Chairman's instructions, while a proposal to constitute an internal inquiry committee had also been submitted to ensure an impartial investigation. "Once the committee is formed, it will conduct a detailed probe based on all facts, available evidence and statements of the parties concerned, before submitting its report."
He added that if the inquiry uncovered any irregularities or adverse findings, those responsible would face statutory and departmental action under the provisions of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee Act, 1939 and the applicable Employee Conduct Rules.
Appealing for restraint, the Chief Executive Officer urged the public to avoid spreading unverified claims, stressing that the matter was closely tied to the faith of millions of devotees. "Since the issue concerns the sentiments of millions of devotees, people should refrain from making unsubstantiated or misleading allegations." The BKTC has not indicated a timeline for completion of the inquiry, but said further action will depend on the findings of the committee's investigation.
