The Baba Balak Nath Temple Trust is set to implement a new standard operating procedure (SOP) for counting cash and offerings at the Baba Balak Nath shrine in Deotsidh, Hamirpur district, aiming to plug leakages and enhance transparency. The move follows a recent donation pilferage controversy at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
Key Measures in the Proposed SOP
Among the proposed measures, the trust is considering a pocket-less dress code for staff entering the donation counting room to reduce the risk of pilferage. Additional CCTV cameras will be installed at sensitive locations, including the currency counting room. Digital systems for services will be strengthened, and staff accountability will be improved through periodic transfers and role changes.
Allegations of Leakages
According to reliable sources, the trust has received repeated complaints about leakages in various sections. Besides donations, allegations include pilferage of ration from the community langar, diversion of Baba ka Rot (prasad) from the trust-operated outlet, irregularities in the sale and auction of goats donated by devotees, and booking of rooms in the temple sarai. Items such as fans, water coolers, and other donations are reportedly missing from trust records. The shrine receives annual donations of around Rs 40-45 crore, used for salaries, maintenance, and infrastructure.
Digitisation and Outsourcing
Online booking of sarai rooms is already in place, and the sale of prasad will soon be handed over to a local Self-Help Group. These steps are part of broader efforts to improve transparency.
Official Statement
BBNT Commissioner Gandharva Rathore said, “Our efforts are to provide the best facilities to devotees and ensure that every donation is utilised effectively for the trust’s welfare programmes.” She confirmed that the trust has begun drafting a comprehensive SOP to streamline operations and improve surveillance across the temple complex.
