Chencho Dema

Punakha—The four individuals accused of embezzling millions of ngultrums from entry fees collected at Chimi Lhakhang over a span of two years have been temporarily removed from their posts by the Punakha Dzongkhag Administration.

The decision was taken on October 18 to ensure a fair investigation and prevent interference in the ongoing inquiry.

The alleged misappropriation of funds, which has raised public concern, revolves around irregularities in the management of entry fees at the Chimi Lhakhang, a popular destination for both local pilgrims and tourists generating substantial revenue.

Authorities have assured that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the extent of the mismanagement and to hold those involved accountable.

Punakha Dzongda Thuji Tshering, said that temporary staff have been deployed to manage entry fees while the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) investigation continues. “We are committed to safeguarding public trust and preserving the sanctity of this cultural landmark,” he said, adding that ticket verification and crowd management at the site is unaffected.

Following similar cases of monument fee embezzlement at Paro Taktsang and Punakha Dzong, the Punakha Dzongkhag Administration requested Royal Bhutan Police for an investigation into the Chimi Lhakhang case too.

Unlike Punakha Dzong and Paro Taktsang, police personnel were not stationed at Chimi Lhakhang to verify ticket purchases.

Following the investigation led by police from Thimphu headquarters, the case was handed over to the ACC on October 14.

The four individuals were responsible for ticket sale and validation at Chimi Lhakhang. Two served as ticket validators while the other two were stationed at the counter, issuing tickets to tourists.

The investigation, which began in September, uncovered fraud involving the four individuals, who are between 22 and 45 years.

Around Nu 25 million, accounting for 47 percent of the total fees collected between September 2022 and September 2024, was reportedly deposited into the government account. The rest is suspected to have been embezzled by the accused.

Tourists visiting Chimi Lhakhang are required to pay an entry fee of Nu 500, which is collected at the base of the temple. Around 42,827 tourists visited Chimi Lhakhang between January and November this year.

Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the “Fertility Temple”, is a sacred site of pilgrimage, renowned for its association with fertility blessings and the legacy of Lam Drukpa Kuenley, the Divine Madman.