According to Vartha Bharati, Uttarakhand police have made a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the theft of donations and offerings from the Badrinath Temple. Authorities have arrested a security guard identified as Manoj Kumar, who was employed at the Lamabagad hydroelectric project barrage operated by JP Power Ventures Ltd in Joshimath.
Police reports indicate that the arrest followed a detailed review of CCTV footage, which allegedly captured the suspect engaging in suspicious activities within the temple's counting room. Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspect had been granted access to the temple to facilitate VIP darshan arrangements for guests and relatives of senior company officials.
An FIR has been registered at the Kotwali Sri Badrinath police station in connection with the theft. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) continues to probe the incident, which has already resulted in the arrest and judicial remand of two temple committee employees previously suspected of involvement in the case. Further investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the theft and identify any other potential accomplices.
The report provides specific details regarding an ongoing police investigation, including the name of the suspect and the context of the arrest. While it is a single-source report from a regional outlet, the details are internally consistent and follow standard reporting on criminal investigations in India.
No corroborating trusted sources found.
Original report: Vartha Bharati