Political Remarks Stir Trouble at Tirumala
The Tirumala temple, known for its spiritual sanctity, has recently become the center of a political storm. P. Ravindranath Reddy, a senior leader from the YSR Congress Party and maternal uncle of former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, is facing legal action for making political statements within the temple premises.
The incident occurred after Reddy completed his darshan at the Sri Venkateswara temple. While addressing media outside the temple, he criticized the ruling coalition government and commented on the Pulivendula ZPTC by-election. His remarks were seen as a direct violation of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) directive, which strictly prohibits political speech on temple grounds.
TTD had earlier issued clear guidelines to preserve the spiritual atmosphere of Tirumala. These rules were meant to ensure that the temple remains a place of devotion, free from political influence. Despite this, Reddy’s statements sparked concern among devotees and officials alike.
The temple authorities lodged a formal complaint, prompting the Tirumala police to register a case. The vigilance wing of TTD is now reviewing the footage and may issue further notices. This move reflects the board’s commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the temple.
Reddy’s comments included allegations against the Telugu Desam-led alliance, accusing them of voter manipulation and intimidation tactics. He also criticized the state’s agricultural policies, claiming a decline in crop yields under the current administration.
The controversy has reignited discussions about the intersection of politics and religion. Many believe that sacred spaces should remain untouched by political agendas. The TTD board continues to monitor media interactions closely, urging leaders to respect the temple’s spiritual essence.
This incident serves as a reminder that even seasoned politicians must tread carefully when entering places of worship. The Tirumala temple is not just a religious site—it’s a symbol of faith for millions. Any disruption to its peace is bound to draw public scrutiny.
As the investigation unfolds, political parties are expected to respond cautiously. The public awaits clarity on whether further action will be taken against Reddy. Meanwhile, the temple continues to welcome devotees, hoping to restore its tranquil atmosphere.
