Jagran Correspondent, Gopeshwar (Chamoli): The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations at Badrinath Dham arrested Rajendra Singh Chauhan on Friday.
Chauhan, the former temple officer of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC), is the second person to be arrested by the SIT in connection with the case.
Former Badrinath Temple Officer Arrested After Four-Hour SIT Questioning
According to Jagran.com, former temple officer Rajendra Singh Chauhan was arrested on Friday after nearly four hours of questioning by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Investigators took Chauhan into custody and registered his arrest after finding contradictions in his statements and evidence of involvement in the embezzlement of donations.
The arrest, which has reportedly caused a stir among members of the temple committee and associated officials, comes just days after Chauhan retired on June 30.
Badrinath Dham Donation Theft Probe: Key Developments So Far
Since the alleged embezzlement of donations at Badrinath Dham came to light, the SIT and the temple committee have taken several key actions.
- First Arrest: The SIT first arrested Pramod Nautiyal, a personal assistant to the BKTC, who was subsequently sent to judicial custody.
- Second Arrest: Former temple officer Rajendra Singh Chauhan was arrested on Friday, marking the second arrest by SIT in connection with the case.
- Departmental Action: The temple committee removed Chief Treasurer Sandeep Mehta from his post with immediate effect.
What's Next?
According to police and SIT officials, the scope of the investigation is being widened based on the information and documents recovered from the former officer. Investigators are currently examining bank account statements and analysing CCTV footage to determine if other high-ranking officials or employees of the temple committee are involved.
Speaking to Jagran.com, officials stated that more individuals may soon be issued notices for questioning.
(With Inputs From Jagran.com)