Amidst the controversy surrounding allegations of misappropriation of funds donated for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, similar allegations have now surfaced regarding the Badrinath Dham. Taking the matter seriously, the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee ordered an investigation into the issue on Friday.
BKCTC President Hemant Dwivedi stated that the allegations circulating on social media have been taken seriously. A decision has been made to form an inquiry committee to investigate the incident. Additionally, explanations have been sought from those against whom the allegations have been raised.
On Friday, an organization named ‘Bhairav Sena’ alleged financial irregularities at Badrinath Dham. The organization has demanded an impartial investigation into an incident of financial embezzlement linked to the personal assistant of the temple committee chairman.
However, Hemanta Dwivedi refuted a claim circulating on social media, clarifying that the person being referred to as his personal secretary is not actually his personal secretary. He is a regular government employee of BKCTC and had previously served as the personal assistant to three former chairpersons of the temple committee.
He further stated that if any employee is found guilty during the investigation, strict action will be taken against them in accordance with established rules.
Meanwhile, Sohan Singh Rangad, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, informed that CCTV footage from the Badrinath temple premises was examined after the allegations surfaced. However, it was not possible to verify the veracity of the allegations due to a lack of sufficient clarity in the available footage.
He stated that, given the seriousness of the matter, the Chairman has been apprised of the entire incident. Under his directive, explanations have been sought from the concerned staff, and a proposal to form an internal investigation committee has also been submitted.
According to the CEO, following the formation of the inquiry committee, a detailed investigation will be conducted based on all information, available evidence, and statements from the concerned parties, and a report will be submitted. If the investigation reveals evidence of any irregularities or financial corruption, legal and departmental action will be taken against the guilty parties in accordance with the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee Act, 1939, and the employee code of conduct.
At the same time, he warned that the matter involves the religious beliefs of millions of devotees. Therefore, an appeal has been made to everyone not to propagate misleading or baseless allegations without proper evidence.
@freemang2001gmail-com
