A special investigation team has arrested suspended BKTC employee Pramod Nautiyal in the alleged theft of cash and valuables donated by pilgrims at the Badrinath shrine.
Police said Nautiyal was picked up from his Dehradun residence late Sunday and taken to Chamoli for questioning. Investigators said the arrest followed a review of CCTV footage, witness statements, and other evidence. According to police, the footage shows him repeatedly hiding money and other offerings before leaving the counting room.
The case was registered at Badrinath police station on July 8 after alleged irregularities were found during the counting of offerings on July 2. The complaint was filed by acting temple officer Yudhveer Pushpwan. Police said items allegedly taken included Rs 500 notes, gold and silver coins, a Shaligram stone, and packets of saffron.
Officials said the probe remains active and more people could come under scrutiny as documents, registers, and surveillance records are examined. Nautiyal had earlier moved the Uttarakhand High Court, challenging his suspension, the FIR, and seeking protection from arrest. His petition was scheduled for hearing on July 16.
The case has sparked deep concern because Badrinath is one of Hinduism’s most revered shrines, where every offering is made with faith. Any misuse of temple donations is seen not just as a financial offence, but as a betrayal of devotees’ trust.
Badrinath donation theft probe leads to arrest of suspended BKTC employee Pramod Nautiyal after CCTV and witness evidence pointed to alleged irregularities.
When faith is involved, accountability must be absolute.
