Badrinath Temple donation controversy has intensified after police registered an FIR against Pramod Nautiyal. He serves as the government PA of the temple committee chairman. Meanwhile, authorities suspended Nautiyal before filing the complaint. Police started investigating allegations linked to donation money counting at the shrine.
FIR Filed After Preliminary Investigation Raises Questions
According to the temple administration complaint, officials found irregularities during an initial departmental inquiry. Badrinath in-charge temple officer Yudhveer Paswan submitted a written complaint at Badrinath police station.
The complaint stated that investigators found Nautiyal allegedly taking donation money from the counting area. Officials observed the incident between around 9 AM and 9:30 AM. Consequently, the temple committee suspended him after reviewing the preliminary report.
Later, officials instructed authorities to register an FIR against him.
Police Begin Probe Under BNS Sections
After receiving the complaint, Badrinath police registered the case around 12:30 AM Tuesday night. Authorities filed the FIR under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 306 and 316(5). Furthermore, police handed the investigation responsibility to station officer Mahadev Uniyal.
The officer has started examining the allegations and related evidence.
CCTV Footage And Employee Statements Under Review
Investigators are collecting departmental action records and inquiry reports prepared by the temple committee. Additionally, officials are gathering explanations from employees involved in the July 2 donation counting process. Police will examine CCTV footage from that day to understand the incident clearly.
Moreover, investigators will check whether any other person had involvement in the matter.
Devotees And Saints Were Present During Counting
Temple committee CEO Sohan Singh Rangar informed that several people attended the counting process. The July 2 session included temple employees, 11 to 12 devotees, and three saints. Therefore, investigators will review everyone’s activities present during the donation counting.
The inquiry will not remain limited only to temple employees.
MLA Demands Transparent Investigation Into Allegations
Badrinath assembly MLA Lakhpat Butola called the matter serious and concerning. He said such a large alleged donation theft could not happen through one person alone. Additionally, he suspected possible involvement of influential individuals or an organised network.
The MLA demanded a fair and detailed investigation into every aspect.
He also requested public disclosure if authorities find involvement of others.
Police Continue Search For Complete Facts
Butola said authorities must protect the dignity of Badrinath Dham, a major faith centre. Currently, police are examining departmental records, CCTV footage, and other evidence.
The investigation aims to uncover the complete sequence behind the alleged donation issue.
