Pune: Pilgrims from Khed, Ambegaon, and Maval talukas have reported being defrauded by a travel company under the guise of providing facilities for the Char Dham Yatra.

The Bhusawal-based travel company, Siddhesh Tours and Travels, is accused of cheating about 60 pilgrims from these regions. Pilgrims, including Bhagwan Temgire, Ankush Kadam, and Bhanudas Gade, have come forward to highlight the issue.

The pilgrims embarked on their journey to Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath from May 31 to June 14, paying ₹22,500 each, amounting to a total of ₹14,10,000. The package was supposed to cover separate rooms for families, meals, and bus fare.

However, upon reaching their destinations, the pilgrims faced unexpected additional charges. They were often asked to pay extra or cover some costs themselves. During the journey, the bus was stopped multiple times to demand more money, accumulating an additional ₹80,000.

When questioned, the organizers gave evasive answers, insisting the money had to be paid. The pilgrims, having no other option due to their distant location, complied with the demands.

Complaints against the travel organizers were filed twice in Uttarkashi and once in Haridwar. The pilgrims demand legal action against the travel company and the return of the excess money collected from them. Efforts to contact the company owner were unsuccessful.

"Pilgrims should not trust this company or use their services for pilgrimages. We also want our excess money back," stated Ankush Kadam from Savardari.