Police have arrested a suspended employee of the Badrinath Temple in connection with the alleged misappropriation of devotees’ donations, marking a major breakthrough in the high-profile case that has sparked outrage among devotees.

The accused, Pramod Nautiyal, had been absconding since a case was registered against him following allegations of financial irregularities in the handling and counting of temple offerings. He was arrested from Dehradun late on Sunday night after an extensive search operation by a special police team.

According to investigators, Nautiyal was responsible for collecting and managing donations made by devotees at the shrine. Suspicions arose after discrepancies were detected during the accounting of temple funds, prompting an internal inquiry and a police investigation.

A crucial piece of evidence in the case is CCTV footage from the temple premises. Police said footage recorded on June 25 allegedly shows the accused concealing bundles of currency notes while the donation counting process was underway. Investigators are also examining CCTV recordings from June 29 and July 2 to determine whether similar incidents occurred on those dates.

Following his arrest, Nautiyal is being brought to Badrinath for further interrogation and legal proceedings. Police are investigating whether other individuals were involved in the alleged embezzlement.

Meanwhile, the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has completed its internal probe through a four-member high-level committee. The committee is expected to submit its report to the Chief Executive Officer shortly.

The matter has also reached the Uttarakhand High Court at Nainital, which has sought a response from the state government regarding the alleged financial irregularities.

The case has deeply disturbed devotees, as the alleged misappropriation involves donations offered with faith at one of Hinduism’s holiest shrines. With the arrest of the prime accused, investigators are now expected to examine the possibility of a wider conspiracy and identify any other individuals who may have played a role in the alleged scam.