BKTC Orders Probe Into Badrinath Temple Donation Allegations

Inquiry Panel Formed Over Donation Misuse Claims

BKTC President Hemant Dwivedi said that the committee had taken the allegations that have been circulating on social media seriously, and had directed the formation of an inquiry committee to probe the same.

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." 

"An inquiry committee has also been constituted with immediate effect. This committee will conduct its investigation and submit a report as soon as possible, which will be made public. Strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty, as this is a highly sensitive issue that we are treating with the utmost seriousness, given the deep faith millions of people place in this holy shrine. All necessary actions were initiated within 24 hours," he added.

BKTC Chief Denies Personal Secretary Allegation

A Bhairav Sena organisation had alleged financial irregularities at Badrinath Dham, demanding an investigation into an alleged case of financial embezzlement involving the personal assistant to the Temple Committee Chairman. 

Dwivedi has denied social media reports which he said identified an employee as his personal secretary. He explained that the person is not his personal secretary, but a normal employee of BKTC, and has served as personal assistant with three previous chairmen of the Temple Committee. He also promised strict action if any employee is found to be guilty after the probe is completed.

Strict Action Promised Against Guilty

BKTC CEO Sohan Singh Rangad, in his statement, mentioned that the CCTV footage at the Badrinath Temple premises has been checked in connection with social media allegations. He stated that explanations are being taken from employees on the direction of the Chairman, and a proposal to form an internal inquiry committee has been forwarded to him for a thorough investigation. 

The BKTC will initiate statutory and departmental action if any wrongdoing is discovered during the probe according to the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee Act, 1939.