Badrinath Dham Faces Donation Theft Claims; Probe Underway Amid Ram Mandir Row

The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has started a departmental investigation after allegations surfaced about the misuse of donations at Badrinath Dham. The development comes at a time when authorities are also examining a similar controversy involving donations at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Committee officials have assured devotees that they will conduct a fair inquiry and maintain complete transparency throughout the process.

Also Read : Himachal Rain Fury: 4 Killed, 49 Roads Closed; Orange Alert Till July 5

Temple Committee Begins Internal Investigation

Temple Committee President Hemant Dwivedi said the administration has taken the complaints seriously and will not tolerate any misconduct. He stated that the committee would take strict disciplinary action if the investigation finds any employee guilty of mishandling temple donations. The committee also plans to introduce stricter guidelines for collecting and managing offerings to strengthen accountability.

According to reports, an organisation named Bhairav Sena submitted a complaint to the Temple Committee’s Chief Executive Officer, alleging irregularities in the handling of donations. Although the complaint did not include supporting evidence, the committee immediately initiated an inquiry. Officials have begun reviewing CCTV footage and other available records to verify the claims and determine whether any wrongdoing occurred.

Also Read : Monsoon Session Expected From July 20, Government and Opposition Set for Showdown Over Key Bills

Officials Assure Transparency and Strict Action

The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee Employees Federation also demanded a detailed investigation into the allegations. Federation President Vijendra Bisht urged the committee to complete the inquiry without delay and take firm action if it discovers any irregularities. CEO Sohan Singh Rangad confirmed that the committee has already started the investigation and continues to examine CCTV recordings. He added that officials have not yet found any suspicious activity, but the probe remains in progress.

The controversy also extended to social media, where some users claimed that President Hemant Dwivedi had appointed a personal secretary in violation of rules. Dwivedi rejected the allegation and clarified that the employee in question had previously served as a personal assistant to three former committee presidents. He reiterated that the committee remains committed to transparency and will implement stricter procedures to ensure proper management of temple funds and donations.

Also Read : Himachal Rain Fury: 4 Killed, 49 Roads Closed; Orange Alert Till July 5