The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has ordered an internal investigation into allegations of irregularities involving donations and offerings at Badrinath Dham after claims circulating on social media sparked widespread attention. Te
mple authorities have said the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness and assured devotees that strict action will follow if any wrongdoing is established.
BKTC Launches Internal Investigation
BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi announced that an inquiry committee will examine the allegations in a fair and transparent manner. Show-cause notices have already been issued to employees connected with the counting of donations, and officials have been directed to cooperate fully with the investigation.
The committee said it moved quickly after the allegations surfaced, stressing that protecting the trust of millions of devotees remains its top priority.
Chairman Rejects Personal Link Allegations
Dwivedi also dismissed claims circulating online that one of the accused employees served as his personal secretary. He clarified that he does not have a personal secretary and said the individual mentioned in social media posts is a regular employee of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee.
The clarification came amid growing speculation surrounding the controversy.
CCTV Footage Reviewed, More Evidence To Be Examined
BKTC Chief Executive Officer Sohan Singh Rangad said officials reviewed CCTV footage from the temple premises after receiving complaints. However, the available footage reportedly did not provide sufficient clarity to establish the allegations.
The inquiry panel will now examine records, employee statements and other available evidence before submitting its findings.
Strict Action Promised If Charges Are Proved
Temple authorities said any employee found guilty of financial misconduct will face legal as well as departmental action under the provisions of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee Act, 1939, along with applicable service rules.
Officials have also urged the public not to treat the allegations as established facts until the investigation is completed.
Oversight Tightened Across Temple Operations
Even before the controversy gained momentum, the BKTC had issued fresh directions to strengthen monitoring of donation counters, treasury operations, accounting systems and puja-related collections across temples under its administration.
Officials have been instructed to maintain complete transparency in handling donations, warning that any negligence or financial irregularity will invite strict disciplinary action.
Controversy Emerges Amid Wider Focus On Temple Donations
The development comes at a time when financial management of temple donations has come under increased public scrutiny following recent controversies involving donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
While the two matters are separate, the BKTC has said it is committed to conducting an independent and impartial investigation into the Badrinath allegations and will make its findings public once the inquiry is completed.
