Days after Ayodhya's Ram Temple, Badrinath under scanner over donation theft claims, probe ordered
PTC News Desk: The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has started an investigation into allegations of misuse of donations and offerings at Badrinath Temple after the claims gained attention on social media.
BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi said an inquiry committee has been formed to carry out a fair and fact-based investigation. Explanations have also been sought from the employees named in the allegations. He added that strict action will be taken if anyone is found guilty.
In a video message, Dwivedi said, "Regarding the news and allegations circulating on social media concerning the alleged misappropriation of donations and offerings at the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Dham, I wish to state that the Temple Committee has taken this matter very seriously".
"Notices – specifically show-cause notices – have already been issued by our Chief Executive Officer to all employees and officials involved in the counting process".
The controversy began after a complaint letter was sent by Sandeep Khatri, founder of the Hindu organisation Bhairav Sena, to BKTC CEO Sohan Singh Rangad.
In the letter, dated July 3, Khatri claimed he had received information about alleged theft during the counting of donations and offerings at Badrinath Dham. The complaint accused the alleged personal secretary of the BKTC chairman of taking money from the offerings and demanded that an FIR be registered and a fair investigation conducted.
According to temple committee records, a person named Pramod Nautiyal was included in the committee responsible for counting offerings, as per a roster issued on April 9, 2026, by former CEO Vishal Mishra.
Reports say Pramod Nautiyal has been working as a personal assistant with the temple committee since 2014 and has continued in that role under several chairmen.
The BKTC has said it acted within 24 hours of the allegations coming to light and is treating the matter seriously because of the faith that millions of devotees place in the shrine. The inquiry is ongoing, and no wrongdoing has been officially established so far.
- With inputs from agencies
