Sacred Silver Sceptre Goes Missing From Kedarnath, Uttarakhand Govt Forced to Order Inquiry

New Delhi: The reported disappearance of a silver sceptre from the Kedarnath shrine had led to a state-wide uproar in Uttarakhand. The sceptre, popularly known as the Roop Chhad and considered to be an embodiment of Lord Kedarnath himself has gone missing from the safe custody of the Badri Kedar Temple Committee, reported New Indian Express.

The Uttarakhand government has launched a high-level inquiry into the alleged negligence of the temple management body.

The sceptre is a popular religious symbol and it accompanies the Chal Vigraha Doli (“the movable idol”) during religious processions. As per ancient traditions, any sacred symbol or ritualistic object which is associated with the Char Dham is considered the “private property” of the deity.

According to priest Pandit Ashok Tiwari, such items are forbidden from being moved outside temple premises for external purposes, with the Badri Kedar Temple Committee being required to ensure the security of these assets, reported New Indian Express.

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