After Ayodhya row, Badrinath Temple orders probe into donation theft allegations

Days after the donation theft controversy at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, similar allegations have surfaced at Badrinath Dham in Uttarakhand. The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has ordered a high-level inquiry into claims circulating on social media about the alleged misappropriation of devotees' offerings and donations at the famous shrine.

BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi said the committee is treating the allegations seriously and has formed an independent inquiry panel to conduct a fair and transparent investigation. The committee has also issued show-cause notices to employees linked to the matter and directed officials to examine CCTV footage, donation records and other evidence.

If any irregularities are found, strict legal and departmental action will be taken under the relevant rules.

Temple authorities have appealed to the public not to spread unverified claims while the investigation is underway. They assured devotees that the findings of the inquiry will be made public to maintain transparency and preserve the faith of millions of pilgrims who visit Badrinath every year.

The development has drawn attention as concerns over the handling of temple donations continue following the Ayodhya controversy.