Badrinath Temple Donation Fund Scam: SIT Arrests Offering and Donation Officer Pramod Nautiyal
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Monday arrested Badrinath Dham Offering and Donation Officer Pramod Nautiyal in connection with the alleged donation fund irregularities case.
Nautiyal was arrested from Dehradun at around 8 pm and later brought to Badrinath as part of the ongoing investigation.
The SIT said Nautiyal faces serious allegations in the case and indicated that action could also be taken against several other individuals as the probe progresses.
The arrest marks a significant development in the investigation into the alleged misappropriation of temple offerings at one of India’s most important pilgrimage sites.
Irregularities in temple donation counting
The case centres on the alleged misappropriation of offerings made by devotees at Badrinath Dham in Uttarakhand.
According to reports, an internal inquiry found irregularities during the counting of thali offerings on July 2, 2026. The findings prompted the filing of a First Information Report (FIR), following which the investigation was expanded.
Authorities have alleged that cash and offerings were taken from the temple’s donation-counting area. Early reports described the case as involving the alleged theft or embezzlement of devotees’ donations and valuables.
The complaint first led to a departmental inquiry before police initiated criminal proceedings.
Probe expands beyond temple inquiry
The investigation has now moved beyond the internal inquiry conducted by the temple authorities and is being handled by the police and the Special Investigation Team. Before his arrest, Nautiyal had reportedly challenged both the FIR and his suspension before the High Court.
With the SIT now taking him into custody, investigators are expected to continue examining the circumstances surrounding the alleged irregularities.
The SIT has also indicated that the investigation is continuing and that action may be taken against other individuals if evidence establishes their involvement.
Case carries wider significance
The alleged irregularities have attracted widespread attention because Badrinath Dham is one of the country’s most revered Hindu pilgrimage centres. As a result, the alleged misappropriation of devotees’ offerings has been viewed not only as a financial matter but also as an issue of public trust.
The controversy has prompted demands for strict action from religious leaders and public representatives.
Uttarakhand government officials have also stated that action will be taken against anyone found responsible during the course of the investigation.
Investigation continues
The SIT’s arrest of Pramod Nautiyal is the latest step in the ongoing investigation into the alleged donation fund irregularities.
Investigators are continuing to examine the movement of temple offerings, the donation-counting process and the role of individuals connected to the case.
The SIT has maintained that the investigation remains active and has signalled that additional action may follow as more evidence is gathered.
