Dehradun, July 14 -- The investigation into the alleged financial irregularities and theft of offerings at the holy Badrinath Dham has escalated sharply.

A high-level, three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) arrived at the temple to probe the suspected misappropriation of funds, immediately turning up the heat on top administrative officials.

The SIT, led by Garhwal Commissioner Anand Swaroop and featuring senior finance and management officers, launched its ground operations by targeting the temple's executive core.

Investigators conducted intense questioning of Temple Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sohan Singh Rangad and his Personal Assistant, Atul Dimri, to probe gaps in oversight.

Simultaneously, investigators embedded thems...