The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has initiated decisive action to uphold administrative transparency and implement its zero-tolerance policy against corruption. The committee has suspended Pramod Nautiyal, who served as a personal assistant (PA) in the chairman's office, with immediate effect. This move comes in response to serious allegations of financial and administrative misconduct concerning the management of offerings and donations at Badrinath Dham on July 2. These allegations triggered widespread demands for a high-level probe from local priests, entitled stakeholders, and opposition representatives.
Investigation Committee and Preliminary Findings
In view of the sensitivity surrounding the case, a four-member investigative committee was established to examine the claims. The suspension order was issued after the committee's preliminary report suggested that the allegations against Nautiyal were substantiated on a prima facie basis. The investigative team is currently on a two-day visit to Badrinath Dham to conduct a thorough inquiry into the entire episode. Reaffirming the state government's strict stance on corruption, the BKTC administration explicitly stated that no individual involved in jeopardizing the institution's integrity or dignity would be spared.
Current Status and Investigation Procedure
The investigation into the alleged irregularities regarding donations at Badrinath Dham has intensified. A four-member team has arrived at the temple site and will remain stationed there until July 10 to review the case comprehensively and compile a formal report. Sohan Singh Rangad, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, confirmed these developments. He noted that the team is scrutinizing all essential records and documents, and will conduct interrogations of concerned individuals if deemed necessary. The CEO emphasized that the probe would be conducted in a completely impartial manner. Should any person be found guilty during the inquiry, rigorous action will be taken against them in accordance with established rules. The investigation is currently ongoing, and the temple administration stated that further actions will be determined based on the final findings of the report.
