Following the alleged irregularities in the handling of donations at the Badrinath Temple, the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has initiated measures to strengthen transparency and accountability across its institutions. BKTC Chief Executive Officer Sohan Singh Rangad chaired a video conference with officials of affiliated temples, guest houses, and educational institutions, issuing a series of directives aimed at improving oversight.
During the meeting, officials posted at Badrinath Temple, Kedarnath Temple, Omkareshwar Temple (Ukhimath), Narsingh Temple (Jyotirmath), and other temples were instructed to ensure complete transparency in handling offerings received from devotees. The CEO directed that all donations be accurately recorded in official registers and counted through a transparent process to prevent any discrepancies.
To enhance monitoring, BKTC has also ordered that CCTV cameras installed at all temples remain operational 24 hours a day, allowing continuous surveillance of all activities. Officials managing BKTC-run schools were similarly instructed to maintain strict administrative vigilance, while supervisory teams were asked to conduct regular monitoring. Managers of BKTC guest houses operating at Char Dham pilgrimage halts in Chamoli and Rudraprayag districts were also directed to closely oversee operational arrangements.
Meanwhile, BKTC has submitted all financial records related to temple donations to the Garhwal Commissioner through the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Jyotirmath. The records will assist the three-member inquiry committee constituted by the state government, which began its investigation at Badrinath on July 14. The committee has already examined CCTV footage from the donation counting room and scrutinized financial documents linked to the alleged irregularities.
Separately, the police investigation into the donation theft has continued. On Monday, the investigating team inspected records at the temple’s protocol office and other BKTC offices. Officials also verified gold, silver, and other valuables stored in the temple’s “Kuber Treasury” while cross-checking daily financial records and related documents.
Police officials stated that the investigation is ongoing and further action will be taken based on the evidence collected.
