BKTC Orders Probe into Alleged Donation Irregularities at Badrinath Dham

Dehradun : The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, BKTC, has ordered an inquiry after allegations of alleged tampering with offerings and donations at Badrinath Dham were circulated on social media against Pramod Nautiyal, a Personal Assistant posted in the committee.

BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi said the committee has taken the charges very seriously and has directed the formation of an internal probe committee to carry out a fair and fact-based investigation. Clarifications have been sought from the employees concerned, and Dwivedi stated that if anyone is found guilty after the inquiry, strict action will be taken as per rules.

The controversy centers on Nautiyal, who has been working with BKTC for several years. Posts circulating online accused him of alleged irregularities in the donations and offerings made by devotees at Badrinath. Bhairav Sena President Sandeep Khatri has demanded action against the employee, and following the viral claims, the temple administration moved quickly.

Dwivedi also refuted social media claims describing Nautiyal as his “private secretary.” He clarified that Nautiyal is a regular government employee of BKTC and has previously served as a Personal Assistant to three earlier chairmen. He said Nautiyal will face the same stringent action if the allegations are substantiated.

BKTC Chief Executive Officer Sohan Singh Rangad said CCTV footage from the Badrinath temple complex was examined after the matter surfaced on the evening of 2 July, based on a complaint received. The footage was not entirely clear, but given the sensitivity, the matter was brought to the chairman’s notice. Acting on the chairman’s instructions, explanations are being obtained from the staff involved, and a proposal to constitute an internal inquiry committee has been sent to the chairman. The committee will submit its report based on available evidence, CCTV footage and statements from relevant parties.

Rangad said that if any irregularity or adverse findings emerge, necessary legal and departmental action will be initiated under the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee Act, 1939 and the Employees’ Conduct Rules. He noted that the matter relates to Badrinath Dham, a center of faith for millions of devotees, and urged restraint from spreading unverified or misleading information before a formal inquiry is completed. He appealed to all to respect religious sentiments and maintain decorum so the sanctity and image of the holy shrine are not affected.

For now, the process to set up the inquiry committee has begun, and all eyes are on the report that will determine further action.