High-Level Committee Constituted to Probe Donation-Related Complaints at Badrinath Dham
Dehradun:
The Uttarakhand Government has constituted a three-member high-level committee to investigate alleged irregularities related to donations and offerings at Badrinath Dham. The decision has been taken on the directions of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami in view of the seriousness of the complaints received regarding the management of donations at the revered shrine.
According to the government, the committee will conduct a comprehensive and impartial inquiry into the allegations concerning the collection, accounting, management and utilization of donations and offerings received at Badrinath Dham. The state government has emphasized that maintaining the faith of devotees and ensuring transparency in the administration of religious institutions are among its highest priorities.
Garhwal Commissioner to Head the Committee
As per the order issued by Tourism Secretary Dheeraj Singh Garbyal, the committee will be chaired by the Commissioner, Garhwal Division. The other members include Sandeep Tiwari, Managing Director, National Health Mission (NHM), and Jagat Singh Chauhan, Director (Finance), Office of the Director General, Medical and Health Department.
Report to Be Submitted Within 15 Days
The committee has been directed to examine all complaints, relevant records, financial procedures and other related aspects of the matter. It has been asked to submit its detailed inquiry report along with recommendations to the state government within 15 days.
Committee Empowered to Seek Expert Assistance
To ensure a thorough and effective investigation, the committee has been authorized to seek assistance, consultation or expert opinion from any government official, financial expert, technical specialist or any other person considered necessary during the course of the inquiry.
Focus on Strengthening Transparency in Donation Management
Apart from investigating the alleged irregularities, the committee has also been tasked with recommending measures to make the donation management system at Badrinath Dham more transparent, accountable and efficient.
Its report is expected to include suggestions for improving donation collection, accounting mechanisms, monitoring systems, administrative oversight and overall governance, with the objective of enhancing public trust and ensuring better management of devotees’ contributions.
The Uttarakhand Government has reiterated that the faith of devotees is of paramount importance and that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure transparency, accountability and integrity in the management of donations at religious institutions. Appropriate action will be taken after the committee submits its findings and recommendations.
