Badrinath Temple Donation Row: Suspended BKTC Employee Booked as Probe Intensifies

July 9, 2026

Dehradun: The investigation into alleged irregularities in the handling of devotees’ donations at the Badrinath Temple has intensified, with police registering an FIR against a suspended employee of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC). The action comes as both the temple committee and the Uttarakhand government conduct separate inquiries into the matter.

Suspended employee booked after preliminary inquiry

The FIR has been registered against Pramod Nautiyal, who served as the personal assistant to the BKTC chairman. He was suspended after a four-member internal inquiry committee reportedly found prima facie evidence of irregularities in the management of temple donations. Police have booked him under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to theft by an employee and criminal breach of trust.

Uttarakhand government orders high-level probe

Amid growing public concern, the Uttarakhand government has constituted a three-member high-level committee headed by the Garhwal Commissioner to independently investigate the allegations. The panel has been asked to submit its report and recommendations within 15 days. The BKTC is also continuing its internal investigation into the handling of offerings received at the shrine.

Donation handling under scrutiny

The controversy surfaced after allegations regarding irregularities in the counting and management of donations at the Badrinath Temple gained attention on social media and complaints were lodged seeking legal action. The latest FIR marks a significant step in the ongoing probe, while authorities have assured that appropriate action will be taken if further evidence of wrongdoing emerges. The case has also renewed calls for stronger transparency and accountability in the management of donations at major religious institutions.