Overview
- The resolution was passed on March 10 at the BKTC’s Dehradun budget meeting and covers major shrines including Badrinath and Kedarnath across a total of 47 temples.
- Access is now restricted to the sanctum sanctorum and immediate temple premises for those not professing Sanatan Dharma, according to chairman Hemant Dwivedi.
- The rule takes effect with this year’s Char Dham Yatra, with portals opening April 19–23 and mandatory online registration already launched by the state.
- Officials cite long-standing practice and say, under Article 25, Hindus include Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists, with devotee registration details to be verified using Aadhaar.
- The committee also approved an estimated ₹121 crore budget for 2026–27, and analysts say the move could prompt similar access rules at other Uttarakhand shrines.